The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published provisional findings from its investigation into the mobile browsers and cloud gaming market. The report suggests that Apple’s policies may stifle innovation in mobile web browsers used by UK businesses and millions of phone users. The CMA’s independent inquiry group has recommended that the CMA board consider investigating Apple and Google’s mobile ecosystem activities under new digital markets competition rules.
However, they propose that no further action is needed for cloud gaming, as primary concerns in that sector have already been addressed. The investigation stems from a 2021 report that identified Apple and Google as having a duopoly over mobile ecosystems, including operating systems, app stores, and web browsers on mobile devices. This allows them to set the rules for mobile browsers operating on iOS and Android devices.
Apple’s mobile browser policies scrutinized
Smaller UK app developers have pointed out that Apple’s limitations hinder using progressive web apps on iOS devices. A revenue-sharing agreement between Google and Apple has also been found to diminish their incentives to compete within the iOS mobile browser space.
Margot Daly, chair of the CMA’s independent inquiry group, stated, “Markets work best when companies can introduce innovative options for consumers. Our provisional view is that the status quo for mobile browsers is inadequate and holds back innovation.”
The CMA is inviting comments on its provisional findings by 13 December and expects to make a final decision in March 2025. The new digital markets competition rules, part of the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act, will enable the CMA to designate firms with Strategic Market Status (SMS) and impose necessary interventions to promote competition.
This development could potentially lead to changes similar to those introduced by the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which required Apple to allow users to choose their default web browser when setting up a new iPhone. The move could mark another significant shift for the tech giant, pushing Apple to adapt its policies beyond the EU and potentially shaping the iPhone experience for users worldwide.
