UK Challenges Apple, Google Over App Store Market Control
The UK is tightening its grip on tech giants Apple and Google, urging both companies to ensure fairer practices on their mobile platforms. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said Wednesday that it’s planning to assign the two U.S. firms “strategic market status” due to their dominance in the UK mobile space.
According to the CMA, both Apple and Google run what it describes as an “effective duopoly,” with 90–100% of mobile devices in the UK operating on either iOS or Android. The regulator flagged multiple issues, including unpredictable app review timelines, unclear app store ranking processes, and commissions of up to 30% on in-app purchases.
Sarah Cardell Said,
“Apple and Google’s mobile platforms are both critical to the UK economy but our investigation so far has identified opportunities for more innovation and choice,”
She stressed that the actions proposed by the CMA would be “targeted and proportionate” to stimulating innovation by UK developers who already contribute in the order of 1.5% to the economy.
Targeted For Enhancing Innovation
Proposed interventions for improving innovation include ensuring app review procedures are consistent and transparent, notifying developers of foreseen changes to guidelines, and giving developers Aaron-their proper channels to contest any unfair decision.
Both companies, however, pushed back. Google described the move as “disappointing and unwarranted,” with Oliver Bethell, its senior competition director, stating,
“It is … crucial that any new regulation is evidence-based, proportionate and does not become a roadblock to growth in the UK.”
Apple also raised concerns, saying the changes could weaken user privacy and security.
Epic Games Calls Delay a ‘Missed Opportunity’
Meanwhile, Epic Games creator of Fortnite wasn’t impressed either, but for different reasons. The company criticized the CMA for holding back on addressing app store competition until 2026, calling it a “missed opportunity.” Epic claims it won’t be able to launch its own app marketplace on iOS in the UK this year and isn’t sure when Fortnite will return to Apple devices there.
The CMA now faces added pressure from the new Labour government, which wants regulators to focus on driving economic growth amid efforts to boost a sluggish economy.
A final decision on Apple and Google’s strategic status is expected by October 22. If confirmed, the CMA would gain powers to enforce conduct rules that ensure these platforms don’t restrict competition marking a major shift in how the UK handles Big Tech oversight.
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