The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has strongly criticized Apple for its restrictive browser policies, arguing that they hinder competition and innovation in the country’s mobile browsing market. This comes as part of the CMA’s final report on its investigation into mobile browsers and cloud gaming, which was initially launched in 2021.
CMA’s Findings: A Lack of Competition in Mobile Browsers
The CMA’s report states that competition in the mobile browser market is not working effectively, particularly due to Apple’s restrictive policies. According to Margot Daly, Chair of the CMA’s independent inquiry group, this lack of competition stifles innovation and limits consumer choice.
Key takeaways from the report:
- Apple forces all mobile browsers on iOS to use WebKit (the Safari browser engine).
- This restricts the ability of competitors (such as Chrome, Firefox, and Edge) to introduce unique features and improvements.
- Android allows competing browser engines, making the issue less concerning on Google’s platform.
While cloud gaming was also part of the initial investigation, the CMA decided no further action was necessary in that area.
What Happens Next? The Strategic Market Status (SMS) Investigation
The CMA has already begun another investigation into Apple and Google, launched in January 2024, to determine whether they should be designated with Strategic Market Status (SMS) under the UK’s new Digital Markets, Competition, and Consumers Act.
If Apple (or Google) receives the SMS designation, the CMA could impose legally binding rules to promote competition. This could include:
- Allowing competing browser engines to operate on iOS.
- Providing users with more options to select their default mobile browser.
- Forcing Apple to remove anti-competitive restrictions that prevent third-party browsers from differentiating themselves.
The SMS investigation is expected to conclude later in 2024.
Apple’s Long-Standing Browser Restrictions Under Fire
Apple has long maintained tight control over its ecosystem, requiring all iOS browsers to use WebKit, the same engine that powers Safari. This policy has faced increasing scrutiny from:
- Regulators in the EU and the UK.
- Developers who argue it limits innovation.
- Competing browser makers like Google, Mozilla, and Microsoft.
In contrast, Android allows full browser engine competition, meaning Chrome, Firefox, and others can introduce their own unique technologies rather than being forced to rely on Google’s Chromium.
Why Did This Investigation Take Four Years?
The CMA initially opened its probe in 2021, and it has taken nearly four years to reach these conclusions. While the reasons for the delay are unclear, the final report reinforces long-standing concerns that many in the industry have raised.
Given that the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) has already forced Apple to change some of its policies, it’s possible that the UK will now follow suit with further legal action.
Final Thoughts
The CMA’s latest move signals a potential regulatory crackdown on Apple’s anti-competitive practices in mobile browsers. If Apple is forced to allow competing browser engines, it could significantly change the mobile browsing experience for iOS users.
With the SMS investigation ongoing, Apple may soon face regulatory mandates to loosen its grip on the browser market, allowing greater innovation and consumer choice.
Will Apple comply voluntarily, or will the UK need to enforce new rules? That remains to be seen.
