The Competition and Markets Authority wants to end restrictions that stop developers from directing users to payment options outside the App Store and Google Play Store. This move aims to lower fees and increase competition by allowing "steering" to off-platform payments. Any fees charged for this must be fair and lower than current commissions.

Regulators are also considering forcing Apple to open its near-field communication technology. This NFC access would let third-party apps offer their own contactless payment options, breaking the current exclusivity of Apple Pay. This follows a designation of strategic market status for iOS and iPadOS, giving the UK government more power to intervene.

Apple argues that moving users away from its infrastructure invites scams and bypasses parental controls. Despite these security concerns, the company already agreed to fairer app ranking and review processes in February. These new proposals push further by demanding easier access to iOS features to help third-party apps compete with native services.

This regulatory pressure forces a shift in how mobile ecosystems operate in the UK. Developers could now pass savings to consumers or reinvest funds into innovation rather than paying standard commissions.