Britain’s Competition and Markets Authority on Wednesday proposed giving Apple and Google “strategic market status,” a powerful designation that would let the regulator impose legally binding requirements on the companies’ mobile operating systems, app stores and browsers. The CMA said its investigation found that the two U.S. groups hold an effective duopoly—covering an estimated 90-100% of UK smartphones—and that tighter oversight could create “opportunities for more innovation and choice” for consumers and developers. A consultation is open until a final decision is made by 22 October 2025. If confirmed, the status would give the watchdog authority to order changes such as opening up alternative payment systems, loosening restrictions on app distribution and permitting rival browser engines. Failure to comply could trigger fines of up to 10% of global turnover under the UK’s new digital competition law. Google called the proposal “disappointing and unwarranted,” arguing any new rules must remain proportionate. Apple warned that the measures risk weakening privacy and security protections. Both companies face similar regulatory pressure in the European Union, where the Digital Markets Act is already forcing changes to their business models.