Spotify told a U.S. court this week that letting iPhone users pay for subscriptions outside Apple’s system has led to a “significant jump” in Premium sign-ups. The music giant sided with Epic Games in an ongoing legal battle over app store fees, arguing that Apple’s forced 2025 policy shift—allowing apps to link to external payment options—is working.

After a California court ordered Apple to permit payment alternatives last year, Spotify quickly added website subscription links and audiobook purchases to its iOS app. Internal data now shows more users are upgrading to Premium when shown cheaper, non-Apple billing routes. “The court’s decision directly benefits consumers,” Spotify wrote in its filing, adding that the change also spurred “product innovations” previously blocked by Apple’s rules.

Apple, still fighting the ruling, asked an appeals court to pause the policy during its legal challenge. But judges declined, keeping the door open for Spotify and others like Microsoft, which also backed Epic.

While Apple claims external payments hurt its ecosystem, Spotify’s filing counters: “Choice wins.” No numbers were shared, but the company hinted at clearer pricing and fewer fees as reasons for the uptick.

The Ninth Circuit Court will review Apple’s appeal later this year. For now, iPhone users keep their payment freedom—and Spotify keeps cashing in.