Apple hits back at UK regulator’s attempt to open up the App Store
Apple has objected to proposed UK regulations from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) that would allow app developers to direct users to payment options outside the App Store. The company argues the plan constitutes price regulation and represents an overly intrusive intervention in its business model.
Currently, UK developers are prohibited from officially directing users to external payment links, though some have found unofficial workarounds. The CMA’s proposal would change this by permitting developers to guide customers to their own stores and websites. Any resulting “steering fees” would be required to be fair, reasonable, and set below current App Store commission rates, with the cost savings expected to benefit developers or consumers.
Apple disputes the regulatory premise, claiming there is insufficient evidence that such a change would lower prices for consumers. This regulatory dispute reflects broader international scrutiny of app store practices, following similar interventions in the US and EU that have already opened payment options to developers.