NEW YORK (BBC): The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority has launched an investigation into whether Apple’s terms for app developers are anti-competitive.
It follows a series of complaints, including a high-profile one from Epic Games, the developer of Fortnite. Some developers are unhappy that they are forced to distribute apps to iPhones and iPads via the App Store, and the commission Apple takes. Apple said its terms were “fair and equal”. The investigation will consider whether Apple has a dominant position in the distribution of apps on its devices and look at whether it imposes unfair terms on developers.
Andrea Coscelli, chief executive of the CMA said: “Millions of us use apps every day to check the weather, play a game or order a takeaway. So complaints that Apple is using its market position to set terms which are unfair or may restrict competition and choice – potentially causing customers to lose out when buying and using apps – warrant careful scrutiny.”
In response, Apple said: “We believe in thriving and competitive markets where any great idea can flourish. The App Store has been an engine of success for app developers, in part because of the rigorous standards we have in place – applied fairly and equally to all developers – to protect customers from malware and to prevent rampant data collection without their consent.
“We look forward to working with the UK Competition and Markets Authority to explain how our guidelines for privacy, security and content have made the App Store a trusted marketplace for both consumers and developers.”
