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UK Competition Watchdog Proposes New Rules for Apple and Google’s Mobile Platforms

By  |  July 23, 2025

The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has announced plans to designate Apple and Google with “Strategic Market Status” (SMS), a move that could significantly impact their dominance in the mobile ecosystem. This designation would empower the CMA to enforce new regulations on the tech giants, aimed at ensuring fairer competition within the mobile internet browser market, which is currently led by Apple’s Safari and Google’s Chrome.

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    According to Reuters, the CMA’s investigation has revealed concerns that the mobile browser market is not functioning effectively for either consumers or businesses. The two companies, which control the mobile browsing experience on iPhones and Android devices, have long held a dominant position in the sector. The regulator argues that the dominance of these platforms stifles innovation and choice, particularly for app developers and consumers in the UK.

    Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the CMA, emphasized the importance of mobile platforms to the UK economy. In a statement, she explained, “Apple and Google’s mobile platforms are both critical to the UK economy… but our investigation so far has identified opportunities for more innovation and choice.” The CMA aims to implement “targeted and proportionate actions” that would foster innovation while ensuring that consumers receive a high-quality mobile experience.

    Related: Google Faces £5 Billion Class Action in UK Over Alleged Online Search Monopoly

    The proposals have faced significant pushback from both Apple and Google. In response, Google’s Senior Director for Competition, Oliver Bethell, expressed concerns over the new regulatory measures. “It is… crucial that any new regulation is evidence-based, proportionate and does not become a roadblock to growth in the UK,” Bethell stated. Google described the CMA’s move as “disappointing and unwarranted.”

    Apple, meanwhile, voiced its apprehension that the new rules could undermine the privacy and security protections that its users expect. The company expressed its belief that these regulations could negatively affect the safety features currently embedded in its ecosystem, potentially compromising user experience.

    The CMA’s move to designate Apple and Google with SMS comes after a thorough investigation into the state of mobile ecosystems in the UK. The authority’s findings suggest that there is room for improvement in terms of competition and market dynamics. The final decision regarding the designation is expected by October 22, with the CMA also publishing a roadmap outlining potential further actions as part of its ongoing investigation into these mobile market concerns.

    Source: Reuters