UK CMA reviews Apple and Google app store fees and NFC access rules
UK CMA proposes new app store fee rules and NFC access for contactless payments.
Why it matters: Legal professionals advising on tech and antitrust law must understand these regulatory changes, which could alter app store operations, payment systems, and compliance risks for major platforms.
- On June 30, 2026, the CMA proposed allowing app developers to direct users to alternative payment methods outside Apple and Google’s app stores.
- Apple and Google currently charge commissions up to 30% on in-app purchases within their platforms.
- The CMA is considering requiring Apple to open its near-field communication (NFC) technology to allow third-party contactless payment options.
- In October 2025, the CMA assigned ‘strategic market status’ to Apple and Google, enabling tailored regulatory rules for each company.
The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has unveiled a new set of proposals focused on improving competition and innovation within the mobile app ecosystem, particularly concerning payment methods and contactless technologies.
On June 30, 2026, the CMA published a consultation proposing that app developers be permitted to direct users toward alternative payment options outside of Apple’s and Google’s app stores — a practice referred to as “steering.” This would challenge Apple’s existing absolute ban and Google’s restrictions on off-platform payment mechanisms. The change aims to enable developers and consumers to avoid the steep fees charged by these companies, which can reach up to 30% on in-app purchases. Details appear in the CMA’s consultation document.
Additionally, the CMA is exploring a requirement that Apple open access to its near-field communication (NFC) technology. Currently, Apple tightly controls NFC access, restricting third-party apps from offering contactless payment services on iOS devices. Opening NFC access could increase competition and innovation in mobile payments on Apple’s platform, which commands significant market share.
These proposals build on the CMA’s strategic approach following its October 2025 designation of Apple and Google as having “strategic market status.” This status empowers the CMA to impose company-specific rules to promote fair competition in the digital ecosystem. The CMA’s ongoing work is summarized in its programme overview.
Earlier, Apple and Google agreed to reforms in February 2026 aimed at making app store processes fairer and improving interoperability within iOS (CMA news release).
Apple representatives argue that steering users away from their payment systems could reduce security and fraud protections. Google contends it has proactively adopted similar measures. CMA executive director Will Hayter stressed that enabling meaningful choice and competition is crucial in this segment of mobile technology.
Legal professionals should closely monitor these regulatory developments, as they signal potential shifts in compliance obligations, contractual frameworks, and antitrust enforcement relating to mobile platforms and payment systems. Understanding the specifics of the CMA’s proposals will be essential for advising clients operating within or alongside these major mobile ecosystems.
By the numbers:
- 30% — maximum commission Apple and Google charge on in-app purchases
- June 30, 2026 — date CMA issued the new app store and NFC consultation
- October 2025 — when CMA designated Apple and Google with strategic market status
Yes, but: Apple and Google argue that some CMA proposals may undermine user security protections and claim they have already implemented similar changes voluntarily, highlighting ongoing debate over balance between competition and consumer safety.
What's next: The CMA consultation period will continue through late 2026, with final regulatory decisions expected in early 2027 following stakeholder feedback.