A final report by an independent inquiry group has found that mobile browsers are not working well for UK businesses and millions of mobile device users, holding back innovation in the country. The report, published today, highlights concerns related to Apple’s policies governing mobile browsers, which restrict competitors from offering innovative features.
The investigation, led by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), assessed feedback to a provisional decision report published in November 2024. It confirmed its initial concerns about Apple’s rules, except for two areas where specific practices were resolved after Apple released software updates. These changes address users’ ability to switch default browsers on iOS devices.
However, the group maintained its conclusion that no further action is necessary in relation to cloud gaming. The CMA has also opened investigations into whether Apple and Google should be designated as having strategic market status (SMS) under the new digital markets competition regime. If designations are made, the CMA recommends imposing interventions to enhance competition, such as enabling users to actively choose their preferred browser.
Margot Daly, Chair of the CMA’s independent inquiry group, stated that competition between mobile browsers is not working well and is hindering innovation in the UK. The report suggests that designated SMS would improve competitive conditions, allowing more companies to invest, innovate, and grow, ultimately benefiting consumers.
The investigation was prompted by the CMA’s Mobile Ecosystems Market Study in 2021, which found Apple and Google have an effective duopoly on mobile ecosystems. The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act grants new responsibilities to the CMA to promote competition in digital markets through the forward-looking digital markets competition regime.
Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/final-report-into-mobile-browsers-and-cloud-gaming-published