Summary
Apple and Google have agreed to make changes to their app store practices in the UK after discussions with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). These changes aim to make the app review process more fair and transparent for developers. The agreements include commitments to treat all apps equally and improve developer access to certain platform features.
Key Facts
- The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) got Apple and Google to agree to changes in their app store practices.
- These changes are meant to make the app review process fairer and more transparent.
- Apple and Google control most of the UK's mobile operating systems, with nearly all UK mobile devices using either Apple or Google platforms.
- The UK app economy creates about 1.5% of the country's GDP and supports roughly 400,000 jobs.
- Apple and Google will not discriminate against apps competing with their own or share unfairly any data from app reviews.
- Apple will also let developers request easier access to platform features like near-field communication.
- The CMA is asking for public feedback on these changes and plans to implement them by April 1, 2026.
- The U.S. is also looking into antitrust issues with Apple and Google, which might follow the UK's approach.
