CMA’s Freed Hand: Investigating Tech Giants’ Dominance
The CMA now has the green light to delve into Apple’s control over operating systems, app stores, and web browsers on mobile devices. This decision follows the CMA’s 2022 announcement to address developer concerns that Apple and Google’s restrictions stifle innovation and inflate costs.
The Duopoly Dilemma: CMA’s Initial Findings
A previous market study by the CMA revealed a virtual duopoly by the two tech giants, allowing them to exert significant control over key digital platforms. Although the CMA identified grounds for an investigation, they initially delayed action, anticipating new authority through expected digital market legislation.
Resetting the Clock: Tribunal’s Decision Overturned
Despite launching the investigation six months later, the CMA faced a setback when the CAT ended the probe, siding with Apple’s argument about the missed statutory deadline. However, Justice Green’s ruling underlines the necessity of the CMA’s role in investigating potential legal breaches, rejecting the notion of a one-time-only investigation.
