UK pushes Apple and Google for mobile changes to curb market power
Publishing timestamp: 2025-07-23 10:44:08
Summary
The U.K.'s Competition and Markets Authority proposed designating Apple and Google as having "strategic market status," allowing them to force changes in their app stores and mobile ecosystems. Both companies disagreed with the proposals, citing concerns about user security and consumer impact. The regulator is looking into various issues such as app review processes, in-app purchase fees, and data access. Immediate changes include more transparency in app review processes and easier ways for users to pay for services outside of the app. The regulator is also considering requiring Apple to allow alternative app stores and sideloading. Apple and Google have faced regulatory challenges in Europe, with fines and requirements for changes to their operations.
Sentiment: MIXED
Keywords: products and services, antitrust regulation, united kingdom, technology, monopoly and antitrust, internet, apple inc, alphabet class c, alphabet inc, business news,
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/23/apple-google-uk-competition-regulator-investigation.html