Overview
- Apple and Google agreed to review and rank apps using fair, objective and transparent criteria and to avoid self‑preferencing or unfair use of developers’ data.
- Apple committed to a clearer process for developers to request interoperable access to iOS and iPadOS features, potentially opening competition in areas like digital wallets and translation.
- The moves mark the first concrete use of the UK regulator’s new digital‑markets powers after designating both mobile platforms with strategic market status in October 2025.
- The CMA will publish metrics on approvals, rejections, review times, complaints and interoperability outcomes to gauge compliance, with formal conduct requirements on the table if results fall short.
- Apple and Google welcomed the outcome, while developer and media groups criticized the voluntary package as too light, with issues such as commissions and wallet access flagged for possible action later this year.