UK Regulators Push for Apple & Google’s App Stores Crackdown

For the longest time, Apple and Google ran their app stores pretty much unchecked. It’s safe to say that this allowed both companies to create a robust ecosystem that powers the majority of smartphones and tablets these days. However, we’ve seen in the past few years how regulators are now trying to clamp down on it. Over in the UK, regulators are pushing Apple and Google to make some changes.

Apple and Google’s app stores face off against UK regulators

In the UK, the Competition and Markets Authority regulators have put forth a proposal. This proposal suggests that Apple and Google should be given a “strategic market” status. It sounds like it’s a good thing, but it’s not, at least not for the tech giants. This is because in the UK, companies designated with this status can be forced to stop or change certain practices deemed anticompetitive.

In this instance, UK regulators are going after the app stores run by Apple and Google. In particular, regulators are trying to determine if Apple and Google might have required developers to sign “unfair terms and conditions” in order to distribute their apps via the respective app stores.

This inquiry is also in response to complaints over “inconsistent and unpredictable app review processes” and “inconsistent app store search rankings.” Regulators are also not too pleased with the fact that the commissions Apple and Google charge can go up to 30%. Regulators are now calling for app reviews and distribution to be conducted in a “fair, objective and transparent manner.” It is also exploring how both companies can make it easier for developers to point users towards third-party payment methods.

All this isn’t new

The investigation by UK regulators is one we’ve seen before. This isn’t the first time Apple and Google have faced complaints over their app store practices. Specifically, Apple has run into legal issues in the EU region. This ultimately forced the company to make changes to its App Store. In fact, the changes Apple made in the EU are more or less what UK regulators are asking from them.

However, this doesn’t mean Apple and Google are willing to give in so easily. Both companies have responded to the regulator’s proposal, saying it would be bad for user security and consumers. Both companies also have a month to make their cases before a decision is finalized.