What app store changes are Apple and Google making in the UK?

Apple and Google have committed to changes in their app store practices regarding fairness to developers and consumers, impacting data collection, app ranking, and interoperability.

Who is overseeing the app store changes by Apple and Google in the UK?

The UK's antitrust watchdog, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), is overseeing and has announced the commitments made by Apple and Google.

When will these app store changes be implemented by Apple and Google?

The two companies will implement the agreed-upon app store changes from April, following the CMA's market review.

Home / Technology / Big Tech Promises App Store Changes in UK

Big Tech Promises App Store Changes in UK

10 Feb

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Summary

Apple and Google commit to app store changes in the UK.
Changes address developer fairness, data collection, and app ranking.
Assurances follow UK's new digital market rules effective last year.

Big Tech Promises App Store Changes in UK

Apple Inc. and Alphabet Inc.'s Google have pledged to alter their app store practices following directives from the UK's antitrust regulator. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced that these tech giants have provided assurances concerning fairness to developers and consumers. These commitments address key areas including data collection, app ranking methodologies, and interoperability.

This development is the first set of voluntary changes secured from major US technology firms since the UK's digital market regime was introduced last year. The CMA had previously identified a duopoly between Apple and Google in the mobile platforms market, designating them with Strategic Market Status. This designation imposes behavioral guardrails on these powerful companies. The new rules empower the CMA to enforce conduct requirements, potentially making it simpler for users to download apps and make payments outside of the firms' native platforms.