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UK authorities launch investigation into the impact of Apple’s App Store

The UK government has launched an investigation into how Apple and Google manage their mobile ecosystems, focusing on app stores, operating systems, and browsers. This move, led by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), aims to assess whether these companies unfairly use their dominant positions to limit competition, harm developers, or restrict consumer choice.

In short – is the App Store a monopoly, and is Apple the gatekeeper?

This investigation mirrors the EU’s earlier efforts under the Digital Markets Act, which led to changes like allowing third-party app stores in the EU. If the UK follows suit, it might not be too long before other regions follow. We might even see Apple allow third-party app stores worldwide one day, if it gets tired of fighting these separate regulatory battles.

If you weren’t aware, giving users the choice of alternative app stores grants the ability to legally install apps that Apple would never normally allow on iOS. It also creates competition, and in some cases means lower pricing for users thanks to the lack of Apple’s usual commission.

This scrutiny reflects a global trend, as regulators in various countries are increasingly questioning the power of tech giants. For iPhone users, these investigations could eventually mean more freedom in choosing apps and services, but any concrete changes will likely take time. For those in the UK, we’ll know the outcome by the October 2025.