UK’s CMA Ramps Up Apple-Google Antitrust Probe

The U.K.’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced on Tuesday (Nov. 22) that it is ramping up its antitrust investigation of Apple and Google after receiving “widespread support” for the move, first proposed in June.

“Apple and Google have an effective duopoly on mobile ecosystems that allows them to exercise a stranglehold over these markets, which include operating systems, app stores and web browsers on mobile devices,” the CMA wrote.

The authority said that in the next stage of the investigation, the two Big Tech firms’ dominance of the mobile browser market will be assessed, while Apple will be scrutinized for the way it “restricts” cloud gaming through its App Store.

The CMA noted that responses to its consultation came from browser vendors, web developers and cloud gaming service providers who said that the status quo is harming their businesses and holding back innovation.

It added that web developers have complained that restrictions imposed by Apple on developers lead to unnecessary costs and frustration, and they often have no choice but to create bespoke mobile apps when a website might be sufficient otherwise.

The Phase 2 market investigation will consider these concerns and explore whether new rules are needed to ensure an even playing field.

“We want to make sure that U.K. consumers get the best new mobile data services, and that U.K. developers can invest in innovative new apps,” Sarah Cardell, interim chief executive of the CMA, said.

“Many U.K. businesses and web developers tell us they feel that they are being held back by restrictions set by Apple and Google […] We plan to investigate whether the concerns we have heard are justified and, if so, identify steps to improve competition and innovation in these sectors,” she added.

The investigation should come as little surprise to those who have been following the CMA’s actions.

In December, PYMNTS reported that the authority aired concerns over Apple’s and Google’s “vice-like grip over mobile devices.”

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