CMA Proposes Letting UK Developers Steer Users to Rival Apple, Google Payments

On June 30, 2026, the UK Competition and Markets Authority proposed forcing Apple and Google to allow developers to direct users to cheaper external payment methods outside their app stores. The plan also considers requiring Apple to open NFC access for competing contactless wallets and fintech services. Commissions currently reach 30%, though Apple noted 90% of transactions incur no fee. Google has already updated Play Store policies to permit some steering, while Apple warned the changes could weaken consumer protections. The consultation-stage move adds regulatory pressure on services revenue without proposing to break up iOS distribution.