Apple has voiced strong opposition to proposed UK regulations that would compel changes to its App Store steering rules. Reuters reports that Apple submitted feedback to the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), calling the potential mandate a "highly intrusive" intervention in its business operations.

The CMA aims to allow developers to link to external payment options, asserting this would foster competition and reduce fees. Currently, UK developers cannot direct users off the App Store, unlike in the U.S. and EU.

Apple argues these proposals amount to price regulation and could hinder innovation, questioning claims of customer savings. The company noted the App Store facilitated £46.5 billion in UK billings in 2025, with commissions representing less than 3.5 percent. The CMA, however, maintains its principles aim for "fair and reasonable" steering fees, not direct price setting. These considerations also apply to Google, as both companies were designated with strategic market status in the UK.