CMA Investigates Apple and Google’s dominance in UK mobile market
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The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is investigating Apple and Google’s mobile ecosystems.
As reported by CNBC, the CMA may use its powers under the new Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCC) to investigate potential anti-competitive behaviour from the two tech behemoths over dominance in the UK’s mobile markets.
However, it proposes no further action on cloud gaming as “primary concerns have been addressed.”
Following a preliminary investigation, an independent inquiry group has recommended reviewing whether Apple and Google hold strategic market status in the UK.
It claimed Apple’s App Store rules limit competition and hinder smaller developers, but concluded no further action is needed on mobile cloud gaming, as Apple allowed cloud gaming apps during the investigation.
“Holding back innovation”
The independent inquiry group also accused Google and Apple of having a revenue-sharing agreement that makes Google the default search engine on iPhones, reducing competition in mobile browsers on iOS.
“Markets work best when rival businesses are able to develop and bring innovative options to consumers,” said chair of the CMA’s independent inquiry group Margot Daly. “Competition between different mobile browsers is not working well and this is holding back innovation in the UK.”
The CMA expects a final decision in March 2025, with interested parties having until December 13 to respond.
