Over the past couple of years, regulators have been more active than ever at big tech companies. Names like Google and Apple are among those under the most pressure. 2025 looks set to follow a similar line, as the UK CMA is launching antitrust probe into Apple and Google’s practices in the mobile segment.
UK CMA launches dual antitrust probe against Apple and Google in mobile segment
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is trying to figure out if both firms are eligible for “strategic market status.” If so, the CMA could take extraordinary measures against them if it deems their practices to be negatively impacting competition in their respective mobile ecosystems. The probe will look into how both tech giants handle mobile operating systems, app stores, and browsers.
The CMA will “explore the impact on people who use mobile devices and the thousands of businesses developing innovative services or content such as apps for these devices,” the body claimed. These antitrust probes are carried out under the framework of the new Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act, which grants more powers to national regulators.
Statements from both companies
Both Apple and Google have responded to the antitrust probe launched by the UK. An Apple spokesperson said the company “believes in thriving and dynamic markets where innovation can flourish.” “In the U.K. alone, the iOS app economy supports hundreds of thousands of jobs and makes it possible for developers big and small to reach users on a trusted platform,” the Apple spokesperson added.
On the other hand, Oliver Bethell, Google’s senior director for competition, said Android OS “has helped to expand choice, reduce prices and democratize access to smartphones and apps.” “It’s the only example of a successful and viable open source mobile operating system,” he added. Bethell is urging for a “way forward that avoids stifling choice and opportunities for U.K. consumers and businesses alike, and without risk to U.K. growth prospects.”
CMA has new administration
The new antitrust probes arrive days after the change of administration at the CMA. Doug Gurr, a former Amazon U.K. country manager, replaced Marcus Bokkerink as the body’s chair. The UK government has reportedly asked regulators to “tear down the barriers hindering business and refocus their efforts on promoting growth” at a recent meeting.
