The United Kingdom has launched an antitrust investigation into Apple and Google over concerns that their dominance in the mobile services market limits competition and distorts the market. This was reported by Bloomberg.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), the UK's chief competition regulator, will conduct an investigation to see if Apple and Google's mobile operations, including their operating systems, app stores and browsers, block competitors' products.
The investigation was announced a day after the Labor Party appointed former Amazon executive Doug Garr as chairman of the CMA. In addition, in January, new digital market rules came into force, giving the CMA the right to impose requirements on the behavior of companies, including making it easier for users to download apps and pay for content.
"Android’s openness has helped to expand choice, reduce prices and democratize access to smartphones and apps. We favor a way forward that avoids stifling choice and opportunities for UK consumers and businesses alike, and without risk to UK growth prospects," commented Oliver Bethell, Google's Senior Director of Competition.
If companies repeatedly violate the rules, the supervisory authority can impose significant fines and introduce strict measures to stimulate competition.
"Apple believes in thriving and dynamic markets where innovation can flourish. We will continue to engage constructively with the CMA as their work on this matter progresses," a spokesperson said in a statement.