The phrase refers to modified versions of the Spotify application designed for Apple’s iOS operating system. These modified apps aim to provide the features of a Spotify Premium subscription, such as ad-free listening, offline downloads, and unlimited skips, without requiring users to pay for an official subscription. These versions are typically distributed as application packages (.apk files, though iOS uses .ipa files; the term is often misused).
The apparent benefits of such offerings include cost savings, granting access to premium features without a financial commitment. Historically, the distribution of modified applications has existed due to the desire to bypass paywalls and gain unauthorized access to premium services. However, it’s important to acknowledge the legal and security implications associated with utilizing such software.