The United Kingdom has officially launched an investigation into Apple over its dominance over the browser and cloud gaming experience on the iPhone.
In a press release, the UK Competition and Markets Authority announced that it has formally begun an investigation into both Apple and Google. The investigation will specifically focus on mobile browsers and cloud gaming and the two tech giants' control over the experience with both.
Sarah Cardell, interim Chief Executive of the CMA, said that "we want to make sure that UK consumers get the best new mobile data services, and that UK developers can invest in innovative new apps."
It's all about getting an Xbox Cloud Gaming app
The press release says that "97% of all mobile web browsing in the UK in 2021 happens on browsers powered by either Apple’s or Google’s browser engine, so any restrictions on these engines can have a major impact on users’ experiences."
Cardell echoed many of the arguments made against Apple's App Store rules, saying that "many UK businesses and web developers tell us they feel that they are being held back by restrictions set by Apple and Google. When the new Digital Markets regime is in place, it’s likely to address these sorts of issues. In the meantime, we are using our existing powers to tackle problems where we can. We plan to investigate whether the concerns we have heard are justified and, if so, identify steps to improve competition and innovation in these sectors."
Some major developers like Xbox, Stadia, and Nvidia have been unable to run cloud gaming apps on the App Store so far due to Apple's App Store rules. It's been a major obstacle for gamers who have had to resort to accessing cloud gaming services through the browser, an admittedly lacking experience compared to a native app.
Apple and Google have both been coming under increased scrutiny over the control they wield over their app stores. From governments to competing companies and developers, it seems that the walls are closing in on both tech giants.
