United Kingdom: Competition and Markets Authority issued a summary of the Provisional Decision Report (PDR) response hearing with Apple

On 19 February 2025, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) published a report summarising the Provisional Decision Report (PDR) response hearing held with Apple on 19 December 2024. This hearing was part of the CMA's market investigation into mobile browsers and cloud gaming. The hearing was conducted to allow Apple to respond to the provisional findings set out in the PDR, which examined whether Apple’s practices result in an Adverse Effect on Competition (AEC). Apple reiterated its position as a device manufacturer prioritising privacy, security, and user experience, arguing that the PDR had not sufficiently considered these factors. The company emphasised that its approach enables users to make informed decisions while minimising unnecessary complexity, and that the remedies would reduce differentiation between iOS and Android. Apple also addressed concerns about its Information Services Agreement (ISA) with Google, arguing that the agreement supports competition. Regarding WebKit, Apple asserted that requiring all iOS browsers to use its engine would deliver security and performance benefits and facilitate competition by giving smaller browser developers access to Apple’s updates. Furthermore, Apple delineated recent changes in iOS 18.2, including updates to default browser selection and file management, to enhance user choice.