UK CMA vs. Apple’s Browser Rules
In its report, the CMA’s independent inquiry group determined that Apple’s Safari browser policies prevent competing browsers from implementing certain features, such as faster webpage loading technologies. The investigation also revealed that many UK app developers would prefer to offer progressive web apps as an alternative to App Store distribution, but Apple’s current iOS limitations make this impractical.
Adding to competitive concerns, the regulator highlighted a revenue-sharing agreement between Apple and Google that “significantly reduces their financial incentives to compete” in the mobile browser space on iOS. The CMA also found that both companies can manipulate how users are presented with browser choices, making their own offerings appear as the clearest or easiest options.
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In its summary of provisional decision, the regulator is recommending that these findings be addressed through the UK’s upcoming Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act, which takes effect in January 2025. This legislation will give the CMA new powers to designate firms as having “Strategic Market Status” and impose appropriate interventions to promote competition.
Previously:
- The App Store Era Must End
- DOJ Wants Google to Sell Chrome and De-Google Android
- Apple Denies Evidence of Hiding Browser Choice Setting
- iOS 18: Browser Choice and Default App Controls in EU
- iOS 17.4 Changes PWAs to Shortcuts in EU
- DMA Compliance: Alternative Browser Engines
- Web Push for Web Apps on iOS and iPadOS
- CMA on WebKit Security Bugs
- Safari Frustrations
Update (2025-03-13): Tim Hardwick (PDF):
The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) on Wednesday issued its final verdict on the state of the country’s mobile browser market, and the regulator has concluded that Apple’s policies are largely responsible for hampering competition and innovation.
The CMA's independent inquiry group's investigation found that Apple's requirement for all iOS browsers to use its WebKit engine is stifling competition, and effectively prevents rival browsers from introducing unique features or optimizations on iPhones and iPads, regardless of their capabilities on other platforms.
