Britain's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has designated Google and Apple with 'strategic market status' to regulate their dominance in mobile ecosystems and promote competition in the UK.

This decision follows an extensive six-month investigation into their control over mobile operating systems, app stores, and browsers, including iOS and Android, which are critical to various sectors of the economy.

The designation is part of the UK's broader effort to align with international regulators like the US, EU, and Japan, which are also scrutinizing these tech giants to curb their market influence.

Apple has expressed concerns that such regulations could weaken user privacy, delay new features, and fragment the user experience, citing similar EU restrictions that have already caused delays.

Google and Apple are classified as part of an 'effective duopoly' in the UK mobile market, with their dominant operating systems and app stores limiting competition and innovation.

The CMA's move is influenced by the recognition that these companies hold significant market influence, with a combined turnover exceeding £1 billion in the UK or £25 billion globally, qualifying them for this status.

Regulatory measures could include data sharing, transparency requirements, and enabling consumers and developers to access alternative purchasing channels outside traditional app stores, similar to EU initiatives.

Google has expressed concern that the regulation might impact its Android OS, Play Store, and Chrome browser, potentially slowing product launches and affecting its £5 billion ($6.7 billion) investment in AI development in the UK.

Despite delays in UK regulation efforts, including a previously dropped App Store probe, the CMA's recent actions mark a renewed push to foster competition and innovation.

The decision has sparked debate, with industry representatives arguing that it could hinder innovation, while others see it as a necessary step to ensure fair market practices.

This regulatory approach is similar to the EU's Digital Markets Act and aims to give consumers more choices and prevent the dominance of these tech giants from stifling competition.

The UK's actions are part of a broader international trend, with other jurisdictions like the US, EU, and Japan also taking measures to scrutinize and regulate mobile platform gatekeepers.