The CMA is consulting on new conduct requirements for Apple and Google under the UK digital markets competition regime. The proposed requirements would remove restrictions currently preventing UK app developers from ‘steering’ their customers away from Apple and Google’s platforms for payment.
Steering requirements for Apple and Google
‘Steering’ – the ability for developers to engage with customers about off‑platform options – is currently banned by Apple and restricted by Google in the UK. Lifting these constraints would allow developers to bypass mandatory fees set by platforms.
The CMA’s consultation includes principles to ensure that the fees Apple and Google charge for steering are fair and reasonable. Using an evidence-based framework, the CMA would expect steering fees to be lower than current app store charges, with savings passed onto UK customers or invested back into the developers’ businesses to support future innovation.
Speaking today at the Informa Connect CompLaw conference, Will Hayter, Executive Director for Digital Markets, will say:
