UK takes 'light touch' approach to regulating Apple and Google's app stores

The UK has designated Apple and Google as a duopoly with "strategic market status" in the mobile platforms market, leading to the implementation of special regulations by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). However, the CMA has opted for a "light touch" regulatory approach, differing from the stricter measures outlined in the European Union's Digital Markets Act. Instead of imposing binding regulations, the UK government plans to enforce its digital markets rules in a "pragmatic" manner, which includes accepting "commitments" from Apple and Google regarding app store operations. Apple and Google have agreed to collaborate with the CMA to address concerns related to app review processes, app rankings, data usage, and interoperability. The CMA's requirements aim to ensure that developers are treated fairly, especially when competing against apps developed by Apple and Google themselves. Despite these commitments, former CMA director Tom Smith indicated that the UK's regulations are more akin to suggestions and are "not legally binding in any case." This regulatory approach contrasts sharply with the EU's Digital Markets Act, which imposes strict obligations on tech companies. The CMA's decision reflects a more lenient stance towards regulating the app stores of these tech giants, focusing on cooperation rather than enforcement.