The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in the UK has provisionally concluded that Apple Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL, ETR:APC)’s policies are stifling innovation in mobile browsers.
The findings are part of the CMA's ongoing investigation into mobile browsers and cloud gaming, launched following its Mobile Ecosystems Market Study in 2021.
Britain’s competition watchdog said Apple’s restrictions hinder competitors from offering innovative browser features and technologies such as progressive web apps.
Smaller developers, in particular, are reportedly disadvantaged as these apps offer an alternative to traditional app stores but face limitations on Apple devices.
The report also notes that revenue-sharing agreements between Apple and Google further reduce incentives for competition in the mobile browser market.
Additionally, Apple and Google are found to influence user choices by making their own browsers the most accessible options.
Margot Daly, chair of the CMA’s independent inquiry group, stated: “Markets work best when rival businesses are able to develop and bring innovative options to consumers.
“Through our investigation, we have provisionally found that competition between different mobile browsers is not working well and this is holding back innovation in the UK.”
The CMA has suggested launching an investigation under the Digital Markets, Competition, and Consumers Act, which is set to take effect in January 2025.