UK CMA designates Apple and Google with Strategic Market Status (SMS)
The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has designated Apple and Google with Strategic Market Status (SMS) in key digital markets. The move places both companies under expanded oversight for app stores, in‑app payments, default settings and data practices—broadly echoing Europe’s push to rein in dominant platform “gatekeepers.”
What changes with SMS
- Closer scrutiny of core rules: Tighter review of app store terms, billing options, default apps (browser/search) and cross‑service data use.
- Tailored conduct requirements: The CMA can impose obligations to curb self‑preferencing and ensure fair access for rivals.
- User choice & interoperability: Potential measures to ease switching, improve portability and open more platform capabilities to third parties.
Why this matters
- For consumers: Could unlock more browser/app choice, alternative payment routes and clearer consent controls.
- For developers: Opportunity for fairer distribution terms, new billing options and more transparent review processes.
- For platforms: Apple and Google face added compliance, audits and possible changes to fees and policies in the UK.
How it compares to the EU
The UK regime is separate but aligned in spirit with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which sets do‑and‑don’t rules for designated “gatekeepers.” The CMA’s SMS framework lets the regulator tailor conduct requirements to UK market concerns under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act.
What to watch next
- Specific UK conduct rules: Details on app store terms, browser engines, alternative payments and any sideloading pathways.
- Timelines & appeals: Phased implementation, consultations and possible legal challenges.
- Market impact: Any shifts to app store fees, developer policies and default app choices on UK‑sold devices.
References:
UK Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) ·
DMCC Act (UK) ·
EU Digital Markets Act (DMA)
Discussion: Will stronger UK oversight actually deliver more choice and lower costs for users and developers—or mainly add compliance overhead with limited benefit?