United Kingdom: Competition & Markets Authority opens investigation into Apple's AppStore and the terms & conditions for app developers

The Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) opened an investigation regarding Apple's supposedly anti-competitive terms and conditions on March 4, 2021. App developers criticize the fact that Apple does not let them distribute apps in any other way onto Apple Devices. Furthermore, all transactions through the AppStore are subject to a commission of up to 30%, while not allowing app developers to use alternative systems for payment. The CMA will investigate the aforementioned allegations and examine if Apple has a dominant position with regards to distributing apps and whether Apple is forcing unfair terms & conditions upon app developers. Finally, it will see if Apple's behaviour is resulting in adverse effects on consumers. A decision on possible violations against competition law is yet to be reached. A first decision on the matter is expected for September 2021.