Spotify is set to revolutionize the way users purchase audiobooks on its iPhone app, with a new update that would allow users to buy audiobooks through external links, bypassing Apple's 27% commission. The music streaming giant has submitted the update to Apple, which, if approved, would enable users to see audiobook pricing information and tap on a link to make a purchase.

This move comes in response to a recent court order in the Epic Games v. Apple case, where Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers found Apple in "willful violation" of a 2021 injunction. The judge ordered Apple to stop taking a commission on purchases made through external links and blocked the company from restricting how developers direct users toward purchases outside the App Store.

Spotify's update would allow Premium users to buy "top-ups" for additional audiobook listening time, marking a significant shift in the company's approach to audiobook sales. Previously, Spotify had attempted to circumvent Apple's restrictions by not displaying audiobook prices in the app and instead emailing users a link to purchase the audiobook on the web. However, the company eventually pulled audiobook purchases from iOS altogether.

The new update would "level the playing field" by allowing developers to offer basic pricing information and easy-to-access links to purchase digital goods through iPhones, without Apple's commission. Spotify believes this change would be a "win for authors, audiences, and developers everywhere," if Apple approves the update and the legal ruling stands.

Spotify is not the only company taking advantage of the relaxed policies. Other apps, including Kindle, Patreon, and Delta's emulator, are also incorporating external links and pricing information into their apps. Amazon, for instance, has added a "Get book" button to its iOS Kindle app, allowing users to purchase e-books directly.

The implications of this update are far-reaching, as it could pave the way for more developers to challenge Apple's commission structure. Apple has asked the court to halt the order while it appeals the decision, but if the ruling stands, it could lead to a significant shift in the way digital goods are sold on the App Store.

In the broader context, this development highlights the ongoing struggle between tech giants and developers over revenue sharing and commission structures. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this ruling impacts the industry and shapes the future of digital commerce.