UK takes 'light touch' approach to regulating Apple and Google's app stores

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has taken a "light touch" approach to regulating Apple and Google's app stores, in contrast to the EU's more stringent Digital Markets Act. The CMA will not directly regulate the app stores, but instead will accept "commitments" from the tech giants to address concerns around app review, ranking, data use, and interoperability. This means the UK's rules are more like suggestions and are not legally binding. Google and Apple have agreed to work with the CMA to address these issues, with the CMA planning to monitor metrics like app approvals and developer complaints. If the companies fail to comply, the CMA could then bring forward new requirements. The UK's approach is seen as a "light touch" compared to the EU's more aggressive stance, which has forced Apple to make changes to iOS features and data access. The UK's approach may be an attempt to avoid antagonizing the Trump administration, which could retaliate against the EU's digital regulations.