On Tuesday UK watchdog, the Competition and Markets Authority launched a new probe into Apple and Google’s control of the mobile browser market.
The regulator said it will explore the companies’ “stranglehold” over browsing, as well as Apple’s control over cloud gaming through the App Store, it said in a release. The CMA said Google and Apple powered 97% of all web browsing that took place in the UK in 2021.
Big tech rivals such as web developers, cloud gaming service providers and browser vendors have offered “substantial support” to move along the probe, according to the results of a June consultation released by the authority.
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Among the list of complaints is that Apple’s restrictions make it difficult to build innovative new apps for UK consumers, and that they are forced to contend with glitches and bugs while building webpages.
Sarah Cardell, interim chief executive of the CMA, said “Many UK businesses and web developers tell us they feel that they are being held back by restrictions set by Apple and Google,” she said. “We plan to investigate whether the concerns we have heard are justified and, if so, identify steps to improve competition and innovation in these sectors.”
A Google spokesperson said “Android gives people a greater choice of apps and app stores than any other mobile platform. It also enables developers to choose the browser engine they want, and has been the launchpad for millions of apps. We’re committed to building thriving, open platforms that empower consumers and help developers build successful businesses.″
