Spotify Alleges Apple Breach of Digital Markets Act Over Volume Control Feature Discontinuation

Spotify has accused Apple of potentially violating the European Digital Markets Act (DMA) concerning interoperability standards. The complaint arises not from in-app purchases or pricing, but from Apple’s recent decision to eliminate the volume control feature that enabled Spotify users to adjust sound levels on connected devices using their iPhone’s physical buttons.

Previously, Spotify users utilizing Spotify Connect on iOS could manage volume directly via their device’s hardware buttons; however, the discontinuation of this technology means such functionality is no longer available. To adapt to this change, iOS users of Spotify will now be required to utilize the in-app volume slider to control audio levels on connected devices, effective September 3. It is worth mentioning that this alteration does not affect users controlling volume through Bluetooth or AirPlay on iOS, nor does it impact Android users.

Spotify contends that this change could implicate Apple in a breach of the DMA, specifically citing Article 6(7), which mandates that gatekeepers, such as Apple, must facilitate equal access and interoperability with software and hardware features that are accessible through their operating systems.

Spotify has engaged in discussions with Apple to gain access to technology allowing third-party apps to manage device volume similarly to Apple Music, which Apple has reportedly refused unless the apps accommodate integration with devices like the HomePod. This creates a disparity between how Spotify and other companies, such as Google and Samsung, navigate access to such functionalities. Furthermore, Spotify has indicated that the pre-existing volume control experience was already problematic, frequently resulting in volume instability and bugs. The new in-app interface is hoped to offer a more consistent user experience regarding volume control.

Details regarding this operational change have been made available on Spotify’s Customer Support platform. As of now, Apple has not provided a response to the allegations made by Spotify.