Epic Games is pushing back against the U.K.’s latest efforts to rein in Apple and Google, arguing that newly secured commitments from both companies don’t go far enough to open up real competition in the mobile app ecosystem.
In a statement shared on X, Epic didn’t mince words: “The commitments Apple and Google made to the UK Competition and Markets Authority fail to open the mobile app ecosystem to real competition. Gatekeepers continue to block competing app stores and payment systems with outright prohibitions as well as scare screens and junk fees.” The company added that “the agreed changes won’t correct the core anticompetitive business practices that the US courts and the European Union are addressing,” urging regulators to take stronger action.
The criticism comes after the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced it had secured commitments from Apple and Google aimed at improving fairness in app review, app ranking, data collection, and iOS interoperability. The measures are designed to deliver “immediate improvements” for U.K. developers and will be closely monitored by the regulator.
Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the CMA, said: “Following designation of Apple and Google’s mobile platforms in October last year, the CMA has moved swiftly to secure a package of commitments from Apple and Google that will boost the UK’s app economy, giving developers the opportunity and confidence they need to invest and innovate.” She described the commitments as “important first steps” under the U.K.’s new digital markets competition regime.
Under the proposals, Apple and Google must ensure app reviews and rankings are “fair, objective and transparent,” avoid discriminating against rival apps, and safeguard developer data collected during the review process. Apple has also committed to a more structured and transparent process for developers requesting interoperable access to iOS and iPadOS features.
Still, Epic argues these measures fall short of dismantling what it sees as systemic barriers, including restrictions on alternative app stores and payment systems. Notably, Fortnite and the Epic Games Store remain unavailable in the U.K., even as they’ve returned to the iPhone and launched alternative distribution channels in the U.S. and EU thanks to regulatory changes in those regions.
Epic has recently gained traction elsewhere, including a landmark deal with Google in the U.S. to make way for registered third-party app stores on Android and ongoing pressure campaigns targeting Apple’s App Store fees. But in the U.K., the battle appears far from over, as the CMA seeks public input on the commitments before they potentially take effect on April 1, 2026.
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