Apple and Google have pledged not to discriminate against third-party apps that compete with their own services under a new agreement with the UK’s competition regulator. The commitments focus on improving fairness and transparency within their mobile app stores while stopping short of legally binding enforcement.
Both companies have agreed to be more open about how apps are reviewed before being approved for their platforms and to ensure that rival apps are not disadvantaged in app store search rankings. They also committed to avoiding unfair use of data collected from third-party apps, such as using information about app updates to improve their own competing services.
Apple has additionally promised to simplify how developers request access to certain platform features, including digital wallet functions and system-level tools. These measures fall under a new regulatory framework that allows the UK watchdog to oversee companies with significant market power in digital markets.
Despite these commitments, the regulator chose a voluntary approach rather than imposing formal rules. Critics argue that the measures lack legal force and do not address core concerns raised by app developers, particularly app store commissions that can reach up to 30%.
The agreement also does not cover broader structural changes, such as allowing alternative app stores or new payment systems. The regulator has said it will monitor compliance closely and can impose binding requirements if the companies fail to deliver on their promises. The commitments are set to take effect from 1 April.
Under the agreement, Apple and Google must regularly provide data on app review decisions, approval timelines, and complaints related to their app stores. The regulator will also assess how requests for access to operating system features are handled, as part of ongoing oversight of the mobile app ecosystem.
