Today, the UK government announced that the Competition and Markets Authority has initiated strategic market status inquiries focusing on mobile ecosystems, specifically targeting the App Store frameworks for iPhone and Android devices.
The investigation aims to evaluate Apple’s market influence and possible exploitative behaviors. This encompasses the various methods available for app distribution to consumers and the conditions that app developers must meet to be included in the App Store.
In essence, this appears to be the UK’s counterpart to the EU’s multiple enforcement actions under the Digital Markets Act.
The UK inquiries will also analyze the competition levels between the ecosystems of Apple and Google, including obstacles for rival services to enter the market. Additionally, they will determine if Apple and Google are misusing their monopoly status in mobile operating systems in relation to aspects like pre-installed applications and alternative browser options. The criteria that developers must fulfill to be listed in the App Store will also be scrutinized.
The investigations into the App Store frameworks of both Apple and Google are set to conclude by October 22, 2025, meaning findings will be anticipated towards the end of that year. Potential outcomes could involve fines and adjustments to business practices.
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