The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched parallel investigations into Apple and Google's mobile ecosystems, examining their dominance in operating systems, app stores, and browsers that power smartphones and tablets.
The probe comes as part of the UK's new Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCC), which aims to prevent anti-competitive behavior in digital markets. The CMA will assess whether the tech giants hold "strategic market status" in their respective mobile ecosystems.
The investigation stems from the overwhelming market presence of iOS and Android operating systems in UK mobile devices. According to CMA data, 94% of UK adults - approximately 56 million people - use smartphones, spending an average of 3 hours daily on their devices.
The probe will focus on three key areas:
- Competition levels within and between Apple and Google's mobile ecosystems
- Potential misuse of market power to favor their own apps and services
- Possible unfair practices affecting app developers and users
Sarah Cardell, CMA's chief executive, emphasized the investigation's importance: "The operating systems, apps and browsers installed on our phones and tablet devices act as our gateway into the digital world. More competitive mobile ecosystems could foster new innovations across services that millions of people use."
The UK's app development sector, comprising nearly 15,000 businesses with estimated revenue of £28 billion, could be significantly impacted by the investigation's outcomes. The CMA may require changes such as opening up access to device functionality for rival apps or making it easier for users to download apps outside official app stores.
The investigation will gather evidence from various stakeholders, including device manufacturers, software developers, and user groups. The CMA expects to reach a decision by October 2025.
Apple stated they "believe in thriving and dynamic markets where innovation can flourish" and will engage constructively with the CMA during the investigation.