The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has proposed measures that could reshape the mobile app market. The antitrust regulator wants to force Apple and Google to allow developers to direct users to external payment options outside the App Store and Play Store, effectively reducing the commissions the two companies collect. This follows Apple's designation as having Strategic Market Status (SMS) for iOS and iPadOS last year, giving the CMA targeted intervention powers to boost competition.
CMA proposes lifting ban on external payments
According to Reuters, the CMA believes current restrictions prevent UK developers from informing users about alternative payment methods outside the App Store and Play Store. The new rules would require that any fees Apple and Google charge for such "steering" be fair and reasonable, lower than existing store commissions, and allow developers to pass savings to consumers or reinvest in innovation. This is a major win for developers who have long criticized the 30% "Apple tax."
Sponsored Protocol
Apple must open NFC for contactless payments
In addition to in-app payments, the CMA is considering requiring Apple to open its Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, used for Apple Pay contactless payments. This would let developers offer alternative contactless payment systems within their apps, increasing consumer choice. Currently, Apple restricts NFC to its own services, a practice already challenged in other jurisdictions like the European Union.
Sponsored Protocol
Apple pushes back on security grounds
Apple has strongly opposed opening external payments. A company spokesperson told Reuters that allowing developers to steer users away from Apple's payment infrastructure could open the door to "scams, bait-and-switch tactics, and the circumvention of parental controls." According to Apple, users lose the protections they rely on when directed elsewhere. The company said it will continue to make its concerns clear to the CMA.
February commitments for fairer stores
These new proposals add to commitments Apple and Google made in February under CMA pressure. Both companies agreed to ensure apps are reviewed and ranked in a "fair, objective and transparent way," without discriminating against apps that compete with their own services. Apple also agreed to simplify requests for access to iOS features, potentially clearing the way for third-party apps to compete more effectively.
Sponsored Protocol
The CMA's final decision is expected in the coming months. If approved, it could redefine the UK app market rules with global implications. For more on digital platform regulation, read our article on the proposed law to ban AI companies from selling health data. For broader context on security challenges in the Apple ecosystem, check the analysis on CrowdStrike 2026 and prompt injection attacks.
Source: https://www.macrumors.com/2026/06/30/uk-apple-loosen-app-store-payment-rules
