TechXplore·2025-10-22 14:24Core Viewpoint - The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has targeted Google and Apple for their significant roles in mobile ecosystems, potentially leading to regulatory changes aimed at enhancing competition in the market [3][4]. Group 1: Regulatory Actions - The CMA has classified Google and Apple with "strategic market status," allowing it to implement measures to promote competition and protect consumers from unfair practices [4][7]. - This classification follows investigations into Google's Android and Apple's iOS, utilizing new digital market regulations [4][6]. - The CMA's decision was anticipated, as it proposed these classifications earlier in July and sought public feedback before finalizing [5]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The CMA has identified an "effective duopoly" in the UK mobile market, with 90-100% of devices operating on either Android or iOS [8]. - Concerns raised by the CMA include unpredictable app reviews, inconsistent app store search rankings, and high commissions on in-app purchases, which can reach up to 30% [8]. Group 3: Proposed Measures - The CMA has outlined potential measures for both companies to enhance competition, such as implementing "fair and transparent" app reviews and rankings to provide certainty for British app developers [9]. - Recommendations also include allowing app developers to direct users to alternative purchasing channels outside of app stores, similar to initiatives in the European Union [9]. Group 4: Company Responses - Google expressed disappointment with the CMA's decision, arguing that Android has benefited app developers by reducing the need for multiple operating models [5][6]. - Apple has raised concerns that the CMA's actions could increase risks for users and threaten the UK's developer economy [10].