UK antitrust regulators announced on Tuesday that Apple and Alphabet have agreed to modify their mobile app store operations to enhance fairness and transparency for thousands of developers. The move is described as a significant initial step under a stricter regulatory framework.
The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) determined in October last year that the two tech giants hold a "strategic market position" in the smartphone sector, granting the authority the power to mandate specific changes to foster market competition.
Nearly all smartphones in the UK operate on either Apple's iOS or Alphabet's Android systems, with their respective app stores and browsers holding exclusive or dominant positions on these platforms.
The CMA stated that, under the newly adopted commitments, both companies will review applications in a fair, objective, and transparent manner.
Developers will also gain the ability to request access to additional features within Apple's iOS system to build competitive products, such as functionalities related to digital wallets or real-time translation services.
The regulator had previously highlighted that this dominant position allows both firms to exert substantial influence over content, services, and technological advancements.
Apple stated that it faces intense competition in all markets where it operates and remains committed to delivering the highest quality products, services, and user experiences.
"Today’s commitments allow Apple to continue advancing important privacy and security innovations for users while creating valuable opportunities for developers," the company said.
Alphabet indicated that while it believes its existing developer policies are already fair, objective, and transparent, it is pleased to collaborate with regulators to address the CMA's concerns.
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