Regulator accuses Apple and Google of “duopolising” UK mobile market

Luke Meredith

The UK’s competition regulator has officially declared that Apple and Google have a “duopoly” over the mobile world.

The CMA (Competition and Markets Authority) is, therefore, recommending new guidelines for the two technology giants to operate under.

What this actually means

Forget the legal jargon. A duopoly just means it’s a two-horse race, and they own the whole racetrack.

Apple with iOS and the App Store. Google with Android and the Play Store. Between them, they control the operating systems your phone runs on, the app stores where you get your software and even the web browsers you use to visit a site like ours.

They set the rules. They take the cut. And if you want to reach customers on their phones, you have to play their game.

Why this matters

This isn’t just about tech giants arguing. This may affect the way we use the internet. Got a business app? You have to pay Apple’s or Google’s commission. There is no other option. They are the only gatekeepers to your customers’ phones.

It goes deeper. Ever wonder why some websites look a bit different or act funny on an iPhone? It’s often because Apple forces every browser on its platform to use its own web engine, Safari’s “WebKit”. This means developers have to spend extra time and your money making sure things work around Apple’s specific rules.

This lack of real competition stifles innovation and makes it harder for smaller businesses to get a fair shot.

Don’t expect change overnight

This isn’t a final ruling. It’s a “provisional finding.” But let’s be realistic – Apple and Google will fight this with their armies of lawyers and lobbyists. This is the start of a very long, very expensive battle.

For now, you still have to operate in their world. But the walls might be about to get a little lower. We’re watching this one very closely, because when the rules of the internet change, you need to be ready.

Monopoly, duopoly or anything else, at Engage Web, we make it our goal to help you rank highly in search. Speak to our team today to learn how we can help.

About
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Luke Meredith

Content Editor at Engage Web

At home in both the digital sector and the world of communications, Luke thrives on deadlines and has held roles in healthcare, retail and digital marketing, gaining a sound knowledge of a wide range of sectors. He’s a massive swot as well, holding a first-class degree in BA Communication and Media, and now uses his writing skills and keen editorial eye in his role as Content Editor here. Luke helps to oversee our clients’ content requirements, while also looking after a pool of freelance writers across three continents.