UK Regulator Investigates Apple and Google Browser Practices

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has provisionally concluded that Apple is stifling innovation in mobile browsers, primarily through its restrictive policies that force third-party browsers to use its Webkit engine. This investigation, which began in 2021, revealed that a revenue-sharing agreement between Apple and Google reduces their financial incentives to compete. The CMA's report also highlights that Apple's limitations prevent competitors from offering innovative features, negatively impacting both consumers and smaller developers. While the CMA found that progress has been made in cloud gaming, concerns regarding mobile browsers remain significant. The authority is considering formal inquiries under new regulatory powers, scheduled to take effect in January 2025, to address these issues. Apple has disputed the findings, claiming that such interventions could compromise user privacy and security.