The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has concluded its mandate investigation to Apple over the company's in-app payment system, as it “no longer constitutes an administrative priority.”
The UK regulator first began looking into how apps were distributed on the UK iOS platform in 2021. At the time, it believed Apple was potentially in breach of the Competition Act.
In 2022, the CMA proposed Then launched a full investigation into Apple and Google for their alleged dominance in the mobile market. At the time, it argued that the two companies had created a duopoly that limited choice for UK players.
Despite this verdict, the CMA said that it was Not case closed. In fact, he stressed that he would “continue to monitor Apple's conduct in the marketplace” and could open another investigation in the future.
If that were to happen, its Digital Markets, Competitions, and Consumers (DMCC) Act says filed in May could help address concerns from big tech companies “in a more timely, holistic and flexible way” than current competition law.
Regulators and competitors aren't letting Apple rest
Accusations that Apple has a monopoly (or duopoly) on the mobile device audience have been swirling around the tech giant for years.
Epic Games contributed to this, as it is accused (AND sued) Apple and Google of suffocating, monopolistic behavior. Just last week, the Fortnite the developer has released his showcase on iOS back in the UK after Apple he blocked it years ago.
For Gaming IndustryApple got into further trouble in the UK last June after the CMA found it had breached the Digital Markets Act and prevented third-party studios from directing players to alternative payment methods.
Previously in AugustApple has updated these links and payment options to be more in line with the DMA, while still taking cuts on purchases that vary based on an app's launch or installation period and number of installs.