UK Opens Antitrust Probe Into Apple, Google Mobile Practices

The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched a dual antitrust investigation into Apple and Google, focusing on their mobile ecosystems to assess if they qualify for 'strategic market status.' This inquiry aims to determine whether their practices are stifling competition by favoring their own apps and imposing unfair terms on developers. The investigation, which utilizes expanded powers under the new Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act, could lead to significant regulatory changes by October 2025, including potential alterations to app store policies. Both companies have defended their practices, emphasizing their contributions to job creation and market choice. The Coalition for App Fairness welcomed the CMA's actions, arguing that the monopolistic practices of these tech giants cost UK consumers billions annually. The CMA's investigation reflects a broader trend of increasing scrutiny of big tech firms in the UK.