Google and Apple Inc. hold a “vice-like grip” on the mobile phone market that acts as an “effective duopoly” preventing other players from entering the market in any meaningful way.
That’s the main takeaway from the U.K.’s competition watchdog, the Competition and Markets Authority, who is currently looking into the two company’s hold over the sector, and what impact that has over consumer choice, and pricing.
The twelve-month study began in June, with a final report expected in June, 2022.
“Apple and Google have developed a vice-like grip over how we use mobile phones and we’re concerned that it’s causing millions of people across the U.K. to lose out,” Andrea Coscelli, the CMA’s chief, said, of the study.
“Our rules and guidelines are constantly evolving, and we have made many recent changes that benefit developers and consumers alike,” an Apple spokesperson said.
“We will continue to engage constructively with the U.K. Competition and Markets Authority as their work on this study progresses.”
“We regularly review how we can best support these businesses,” a Google spokesperson said.
“We’re committed to building thriving, open platforms that empower consumers and help developers succeed.”