UK regulator plans to let Apple and Google users choose cheaper payment options in app stores
Britain's competition regulator on Tuesday proposed allowing app developers to steer users to alternative payment options outside Apple and Google's app stores to cut fees and boost competition.
An Apple Store employee assists a customer. Photo by Cheng Xin/Getty Images.
Britain's competition regulator on Tuesday proposed allowing app developers to steer users to alternative payment options outside Apple and Google's app stores to cut fees and boost competition.
- UK regulator is proposing changes to how Apple and Google run their app stores.
- Developers could be allowed to direct users to cheaper payment options outside the app stores.
- The aim is to reduce high commission fees charged on in-app purchases.
- Any fees Apple and Google still charge would need to be “fair and reasonable.”
The Competition and Markets Authority said the proposals would remove restrictions that currently prevent UK developers from directing users to off-platform payment options, which are banned by Apple and restricted by Google.
The watchdog said any fees charged by the companies for allowing such "steering" would need to be fair and reasonable, and should be lower than current app store commissions, with savings passed on to consumers or reinvested in innovation.
It is also considering requiring Apple to open up access to its near-field communication technology, potentially allowing developers to offer contactless payment services within their own iOS apps.
"We have already made the changes that the CMA is proposing today," Google said in an emailed statement.
The company pointed to new Play Store terms introduced earlier this month allowing developers to steer users to complete transactions outside the platform, subject to some restrictions, as well as changes to its fee structure.
Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
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