UK competition watchdog investigates Apple and Google's mobile platforms

Core Viewpoint - The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has initiated investigations into the influence of Apple and Google’s mobile platforms on consumers and businesses, following criticism of the government's appointment of a former tech executive as the CMA chair [1][2]. Group 1: Investigation Details - The CMA will assess the impact of Apple and Google's mobile operating systems, app stores, and browsers on consumers and businesses, including app developers [2][3]. - The investigation aims to determine if Apple and Google should be classified as having "strategic market status" under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCC), which would allow the CMA to impose conduct requirements [4][5]. - The CMA plans to complete its investigation by October 22, and it has already opened a separate investigation into Google’s search and advertising practices [5]. Group 2: Government and Regulatory Context - The investigation follows the government's denial of being influenced by big tech after appointing Doug Gurr, a former Amazon UK manager, as CMA chair [2][6]. - The business minister emphasized the importance of competition for investment and growth, asserting the CMA's operational independence [7]. Group 3: Industry Reactions - The GMB union criticized the appointment of Gurr, while Ethical Consumer expressed concerns about the implications of the hire [9]. - Google defended Android as a successful open-source mobile operating system, advocating for a balanced approach that does not hinder consumer choice or growth [9][10]. - Apple stated that its app store supports hundreds of thousands of jobs in the UK and expressed willingness to engage constructively with the CMA [10].