Britain’s Competition and Markets Authority launched investigations Thursday into the mobile technology ecosystems of Apple and Google, targeting their potential market dominance.

The regulatory body will assess the companies’ mobile operating systems, app stores, and browsers, examining their competitive landscape. The investigation aims to determine whether the tech giants’ practices limit consumer choice and innovation.

CMA Chief Executive Sarah Cardell said more competitive mobile ecosystems could foster innovations and opportunities for millions of users.

The authority noted that nearly all mobile devices in the UK run on either iOS or Android, with their app stores and browsers holding leading or exclusive positions.

This market concentration potentially allows Apple and Google to significantly influence mobile content and technological development.

The investigation follows the CMA’s recent probe into Google’s search engine market position. The regulator plans to reach decisions by October’s end.

Apple and Google both stated they would cooperate with the investigation, emphasizing their commitment to market dynamism and innovation.

The CMA highlighted the mobile ecosystem’s economic significance: 94% of UK adults own smartphones, spending an average of three hours daily on these devices.

The app development sector supports nearly 15,000 businesses and generates approximately £28 billion in revenue.

This investigation represents a significant regulatory effort to ensure fair competition in the rapidly evolving tech marketplace.