The UK competitions regulator has launched a market study into Apple’s and Google’s mobile ecosystems over concerns they have market power which is harming users and other businesses.
The Competition and Markets Authority is taking a closer look at whether the firms’ effective duopoly over the supply of operating systems (iOS and Android), app stores (App Store and Play Store), and web browsers (Safari and Chrome), could be resulting in consumers losing out across a wide range of areas.
These mobile ecosystems are used by consumers to access products, content and services, such as music, TV and video streaming, as well as fitness tracking, shopping and banking.
These products also include other technology and devices which can be controlled by phones such as smart speakers, smart watches, home security and lighting.
The CMA is looking into whether the two firms’ control over mobile ecosystems is stifling competition across a range of digital markets. The body says it has concerns this could lead to reduced innovation across the sector and consumers paying higher prices for devices and apps, or for other goods and services due to higher advertising prices.
The study will also examine any effects of the firms’ market power over other businesses – such as app developers – which rely on Apple or Google to market their products to customers via their phones.
Andrea Coscelli, Chief Executive of the CMA, said:“Apple and Google control the major gateways through which people download apps or browse the web on their mobiles – whether they want to shop, play games, stream music or watch TV.
“We’re looking into whether this could be creating problems for consumers and the businesses that want to reach people through their phones.
“Our ongoing work into Big Tech has already uncovered some worrying trends and we know consumers and businesses could be harmed if they go unchecked.”
The study is part of a broader programme of CMA work, which includes establishing a new pro-competition regulatory regime for digital markets through the Digital Markets Unit.
“We’re pressing on with launching this study now, while we are setting up the new Digital Markets Unit, so we can hit the ground running by using the results of this work to shape future plans,” added Coscelli.
The CMA has been investigating Apple’s App Store and Google’s Privacy Sandbox proposals over competition concerns. While both examine issues falling within the scope of this study, the CMA’s work into mobile ecosystems is much broader.