Apple warns UK CMA plans could delay features; CMA says rules differ
Apple has voiced criticism of proposed rules from the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), warning that regulations similar to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) could cause delays to feature rollouts, undermine privacy and security protections, and create resource burdens for the company.
What Apple says
- Apple argues that stricter rules in Europe led to delayed availability of some features (for example, the rollout of certain services was later in Europe after DMA compliance).
- The company claims extensive data-access demands and regulatory requirements have strained its resources and complicated privacy expectations.
What the CMA says
- The CMA rejects the claim that UK rules are mere copy of the EU’s, saying the UK framework is narrower and targeted to improve interoperability for key areas such as digital wallets and wearable devices.
- The regulator says the reforms are intended to boost competition without compromising user privacy or security, and are being finalised ahead of an October 2025 rollout.
Why it matters
The CMA has designated major platforms like Apple and Google as having strategic market status due to their dominant share of mobile platforms in the UK. Proposed interventions could require changes such as allowing alternative payment systems and improving interoperability — moves that would reshape how developers and users interact with mobile ecosystems in the UK.
Further reading
- MacRumors: Apple warns UK risks feature delays under CMA rules
- 9to5Mac: Apple suggests slower UK feature rollouts due to new regulation
- AppleWorld.today: Apple calls UK CMA rules “bad for users and developers”
Note: This post summarises reporting from multiple sources. If you want deeper analysis or updates, say which angle you want (privacy, developer impact, legal timeline).