The UK’s competition watchdog is set to investigate the impact of Apple and Google’s mobile platforms on consumers and businesses, following criticism over the appointment of a former tech executive as its new chair.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will look into the tech giants’ mobile operating systems, app stores, and browsers to determine if specific guidelines are needed to regulate their behavior.
This inquiry comes after Doug Gurr, a former Amazon UK country manager, was appointed as the CMA chair, with the government denying any bias towards big tech companies.
The investigation will focus on how Google and Apple’s mobile platforms impact consumers, businesses, and app developers, as most smartphones in the UK come with pre-installed iOS or Android operating systems.
The CMA will assess whether Google and Apple should be classified as companies with “strategic market positions” under the new Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCC). If designated as such, the CMA could impose regulatory requirements or mandate changes to promote competition on their platforms.
Sara Cardel, CEO of the CMA, emphasized the importance of mobile platforms as gateways to the digital world and highlighted the potential for a more competitive ecosystem to drive innovation and growth.
The CMA aims to complete its investigation by October 22nd, in line with its focus on ensuring consistent regulations that support economic growth and competition.
Both Apple and Google have expressed readiness to cooperate with the CMA and reiterated their commitment to fostering choice and opportunity for consumers and businesses while complying with regulations.
Source: www.theguardian.com
