Fortnite enthusiasts in a state of uncertainty due to Epic Games criticizing the CMA for postponing the game's iOS release in the UK
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in the UK is currently investigating Apple's App Store, with a focus on promoting competition and tackling potentially unfair practices. The investigation, launched in January 2025, could lead to regulatory measures aimed at reducing Apple's dominance in the mobile market [1][2][3].
The CMA's investigation targets Apple's control over app review processes, restrictions on developers' ability to steer users to alternative payment methods, high commission fees, and limitations on interoperability between devices and services [2][4]. If Apple is designated with Strategic Market Status (SMS), the CMA proposes remedies such as allowing developers to direct users outside the App Store, adopting fair and transparent app review and ranking processes, and providing third parties interoperable access to device functionality [4].
These measures could benefit competing platforms like the Epic Games Store by loosening Apple's exclusive control over app distribution and transactions on iOS devices. However, the Epic Games Store will not be released on iOS in the UK this year, due to the recently released CMA roadmap [5].
The ongoing battle between Epic Games and Apple continues, with Epic Games expressing frustration over the situation. Epic Games accused Apple of taking cuts from developers, imposing fees, and discriminating against apps [5]. The company compared Apple's mobile storefront to Microsoft banning the Epic Games Store, Steam, and other stores on Windows [6].
The CMA's proposed remedies are part of a wider global scrutiny of Apple’s app distribution practices [3][5]. The CMA's decision to consult on this proposed designation will run until 20 August 2025, after which they will decide whether to formally designate Apple with SMS and proceed with enforcement measures [1][2][3].
However, Epic Games stated that four years after the CMA concluded that the App Store and Google Play Store are parallel monopolies, the CMA has done nothing to allow competing stores [5]. The company expressed disappointment with Apple's lack of change in response to rulings against monopolizing the storefront [5].
The CMA made a vague announcement about allowing developers to steer customers to payment services outside of apps, but without providing clarity on restrictions and fees [5]. This has left the return of Fortnite to iOS in the UK uncertain. The CMA's decision to prioritize this investigation in 2026, rather than this year, has also raised concerns about the timeline for introducing competing stores [5].
In summary, the CMA's investigation is at a consultation stage after proposing to designate Apple with strategic market status, with remedies aimed at reducing Apple’s dominant control on its mobile platform and thereby potentially easing challenges faced by competing stores such as the Epic Games Store in the UK [1][2][3][4].
[1] BBC News. (2025). CMA investigates Apple over 'monopoly' claims. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-57148665
[2] The Guardian. (2025). CMA considers Apple's App Store a monopoly, setting stage for regulatory action. [online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/jan/01/cma-considers-apples-app-store-a-monopoly-setting-stage-for-regulatory-action
[3] TechCrunch. (2025). CMA proposes to designate Apple as having strategic market status. [online] Available at: https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/01/cma-proposes-to-designate-apple-as-having-strategic-market-status/
[4] CMA. (2025). Proposed remedies for Apple's App Store. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/cma-proposed-remedies-for-apples-app-store
[5] Epic Games. (2025). Epic Games statement on CMA's lack of action against Apple's App Store monopoly. [online] Available at: https://www.epicgames.com/news/epic-games-statement-on-cma-s-lack-of-action-against-apples-app-store-monopoly
- The CMA's investigation on Apple's App Store could result in remedies that may benefit competing platforms like Microsoft's Windows PC gaming store.
- The ongoing CMA investigation highlights potential restrictions and fees that could also impact other gadgets and smartphones, such as the ones powered by Microsoft's software.
- If the CMA proceeds with enforcement measures against Apple, Microsoft Edge on Windows 11 could potentially see improved interoperability with other services and devices.
- The ongoing CMA investigation has implications for tech giants like Microsoft, as it affects the entire technology market, including Xbox gaming consoles.
- The proposed CMA remedies, if implemented, could encourage developers to create apps that work seamlessly across various devices, including those running on Microsoft's software.
- The CMA's probe into Apple's app store practices could lead to a more competitive market, potentially lessening Apple's dominance and benefiting players like Microsoft in the long run.
