UK to investigate Apple, Google's mobile browser dominance

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), Britain's competition watchdog said it was planning to investigate the market dominance of Apple Inc and Google's mobile browsers, as well as Apple’s restrictions on cloud gaming through its app store. CMA said it was also taking enforcement action against Alphabet Inc's Google over its app store payment practices. It said the two tech giants had an "effective duopoly" on mobile ecosystems that gave them a stranglehold on operating systems, app stores and web browsers on mobile devices.

CMA Chief Executive Andrea Coscelli said following the publication of a report on mobile ecosystems, "When it comes to how people use mobile phones, Apple and Google hold all the cards. As good as many of their services and products are, their strong grip on mobile ecosystems allows them to shut out competitors, holding back the British tech sector and limiting choice."

It said 97% of all mobile web browsing in Britain last year was powered by either Apple's or Google's browser engine, and in addition Apple banned alternatives to its own browser on iPhone.

The CMA said it was concerned this severely limited the potential for rival browsers to differentiate themselves from Apple's Safari, for example on features such as speed and functionality.

Apple said in a statement it had "created a safe and trusted experience users love and a great business opportunity for developers" through its ecosystem.