Overview
- The designation under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act enables tailored rules to boost competition but imposes no immediate obligations.
- The regulator found an effective duopoly, with 90–100% of UK mobile devices running on iOS or Android and users unlikely to switch between platforms.
- Concerns flagged include unpredictable app reviews, inconsistent app store rankings, and commissions on in‑app purchases of up to 30%.
- Potential remedies under consideration include allowing developers to steer users to off‑store payments, fairer review and ranking processes, and opening distribution via rival app stores or sideloading.
- Google called the decision “disappointing, disproportionate and unwarranted,” while Apple warned EU‑style rules could weaken privacy and delay features for UK users.