Spotify users on iPhones can now purchase audiobooks directly through the app, thanks to a recent Apple policy change stemming from the Epic Games v. Apple ruling.
The update, officially approved by Apple on Monday, enables U.S. users to view audiobook pricing and complete purchases outside the App Store — a major shift in Apple’s long-standing restrictions.
The update also lets Spotify Premium subscribers buy additional audiobook listening hours within the app. This development follows Spotify’s previous move to allow iPhone users to subscribe outside the App Store, as Apple can no longer mandate in-app purchases or restrict links to external payment options.
Spotify initially removed audiobook purchases from its iOS app in 2022, accusing Apple of stifling competition. Now, with this ruling in effect, the company is restoring those features to enhance user access and grow its audiobook platform.
“This change lowers the barriers for more users to embrace their first — or tenth—audiobook, while allowing publishers and authors to reach fans and access new audiences seamlessly,” said Spotify in its announcement.
Other apps like Kindle, Patreon, and Delta emulator have also begun taking advantage of the new guidelines, while Epic Games continues its legal push to bring Fortnite back to iOS.
