The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched antitrust investigations into Apple Inc. and Alphabet Inc., the owner of Google, on their dominance in the mobile services market.
The investigations aim to determine whether their control over operating systems, app stores, and web browsers restricts competition and creates barriers for rivals.
The investigations, enabled by the UK’s new digital market rules, reflect concerns that the dominance of Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android stifles innovation and limits consumer choice.
According to the CMA, virtually all mobile devices sold in the UK are pre-installed with either operating system, giving the companies significant control over mobile content, services, and technological development.
The CMA warned that non-compliance with the regulations could lead to heavy fines or mandatory remedies to promote competition.
These new rules also empower the regulator to enforce changes, such as allowing users to download apps and pay for content outside the tech giants’ ecosystems.
“Apple believes in thriving and dynamic markets where innovation can flourish,” a spokesperson said. “We will continue to engage constructively with the CMA as their work on this matter progresses.”
“Android’s openness has helped to expand choice, reduce prices, and democratize access to smartphones and apps,” said Oliver Bethell, Google’s senior director of competition. “We favor a way forward that avoids stifling choice and opportunities for UK consumers and businesses alike, and without risk to UK growth prospects.”
This regulatory move comes shortly after the appointment of Doug Gurr, a former Amazon executive, as the new chair of the CMA.
His selection by Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration signals a commitment to using regulatory frameworks to support economic growth while addressing concerns about market dominance.
The investigations represent a significant test of the UK’s ability to regulate global tech giants and foster a competitive digital marketplace, Investors King reports.