Apple and Google Yield to UK Oversight on App Store Practices
The UK's Competition and Markets Authority has compelled Apple and Google to overhaul their app store operations, marking a significant shift in digital market regulation. Both tech giants will cease self-preferencing practices in their UK app stores by April 2026, though controversial app store fees remain unchanged.
This intervention follows the CMA's October 2025 designation of both companies as holding strategic market status in smartphones. The new rules mandate transparency in app review processes and create a more level playing field for UK developers. "These commitments provide a practical route to address market power concerns," said CMA CEO Sarah Cardell, highlighting the flexibility of Britain's digital competition regime.