Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced that Apple and Google agreed to make changes to their UK app stores following its intervention.

20 hours ago
2 min read

The CMA said the companies committed to:
- Not giving preferential treatment to their own apps.
- Being transparent about how third-party apps are approved.
- Not using data gathered from third-party developers in an unfair way.
Seven months earlier, the CMA said Apple and Google had an “effective duopoly” in the UK app store market.
In October 2025, the CMA designated both companies’ app stores as having “strategic market status,” giving it powers to require changes to promote competition and consumer choice.
The CMA said it will closely monitor implementation and can formally require changes if commitments are not met.
Sarah Cardell, head of the CMA, said the commitments would boost the UK’s app economy and described them as initial steps, with further measures under discussion.
Apple said it faces strong competition in all markets where it operates and works to create the best products and services.
Google said it believes its Play Store practices are fair and transparent but welcomed resolving the CMA’s concerns collaboratively.
Technology analyst Paolo Pescatore described the announcement as a pragmatic first step and said some may call for tougher action.
The CMA said the UK’s app economy is the largest in Europe by revenue and number of developers.
The regulator estimates the sector generates around 1.5% of UK GDP and supports approximately 400,000 jobs.
Apple and Google have previously warned the UK against adopting EU-style regulations, which they argue harm innovation.
Under European Union digital competition rules, large online platforms designated as “gatekeepers” face stricter requirements.
As part of EU measures, Apple has made changes including displaying alternative browser options alongside its default browser, Safari.
Apple said strict interoperability requirements in the EU have affected the privacy and security of its products.
Apple stated the new UK commitments reflect its constructive engagement with the CMA and its pragmatic approach to regulation.