Apple, Google agree to app store changes in the UK

This is not the end of the story, as the CMA is also engaged in other work around the regulation of Apple. The regulator expects to announce agreements on steering and digital wallets for Apple in the first half of 2026, and to “progress work in relation to Apple on browsers, and interoperable access to functionality for connected devices, as well as continuing to closely monitor developments in relation to mobile platforms, particularly the emergence and adoption of AI,” wrote Will Hayter, executive director for digital markets at the CMA.

Next steps

The CMA is now seeking feedback on the agreements with the big tech firms, with views offered up by March 3. It is likely that at least some competitors will turn to the feedback process to try to force further change from Apple and Google, but the CMA otherwise anticipates these new commitments will take effect on Apple’s 50th anniversary, April 1, 2026.

While I doubt this will form much of Apple CEO Tim Cook’s birthday reflection message that day, it’s funny to consider the extent to which the existence and implementation of regulations against the company reflects just how far Apple has come since the Apple-1 was but a glimmer in the eye of Steves Wozniak and Job.

About Author

AndyC

Andy Curtis is an award-winning security consultant, researcher and public speaker. He has been working in the computer security industry since the early 1990s, having been employed by state and federal government, leading healthcare and banking providers across three continents. He has given talks about computer security for some of the world’s largest companies, worked with law enforcement agencies on investigations into hacking groups, and is a regular voice on TV and radio explaining IT security threats.

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