UK — The Competition and Markets Authority is consulting on lifting constraints that prevent app developers from steering users to websites for purchases outside Apple and Google app stores. Apple and Google charge a commission of up to 30% on purchases made inside apps. The authority stated that at least 90% of UK mobile devices run on Apple or Google platforms. The Competition and Markets Authority designated Apple and Google with "strategic market status" in October 2024.

Will Hayter, Executive Director of the Competition and Markets Authority, discussed the importance of this choice. "This is not only because choice is inherently valuable but also because we see this as the best way to introduce some competitive pressure in a vital part of the mobile ecosystem that is otherwise sorely lacking such pressure," Hayter said.

Google stated it has implemented changes allowing apps to steer users outside the Play Store to complete transactions. As of the current week, Google also implemented changes to fees charged to apps, including fees for steering users to alternative payment methods.

An Apple Spokesperson commented on the potential impact of these changes. "When users are directed away from Apple's trusted payment infrastructure, they lose the protections they rely on Apple to provide," the spokesperson said.

The Competition and Markets Authority is also considering requiring Apple to open access to its near-field communication technology for developers to offer contactless payment services within iOS apps. Currently, Spotify does not allow users to buy monthly subscriptions in the Apple App Store in the UK. Users in the UK must sign up for Spotify subscriptions via the desktop website.