London (Web Desk) — The UK competition watchdog Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has proposed changes to Apple and Google’s app payment rules, aiming to reduce costs for app developers and provide users with lower prices.
Under the proposed changes, Apple and Google may be required to allow app developers to direct users toward alternative payment methods.
Currently, Apple does not allow alternative payment options in the UK, while Google has also imposed various restrictions, requiring developers to pay fees set by the companies.
The CMA said that if the new proposals are implemented, the fees charged by Apple and Google should be fair and transparent.
According to the regulator, any benefit from reduced fees should be passed on to consumers through lower prices, or developers should use it to improve apps and introduce new features.
The move comes after the CMA granted Apple and Google a special strategic status in the mobile market last October, giving the regulator greater authority to intervene and ensure more competition in the practices of major technology companies.