Apple has faced several legal challenges and regulatory investigations, particularly over its App Store policies. However, Apple’s control over its ecosystem is much stricter than Google’s. Apple requires all iOS apps to be distributed through its App Store, with no official support for third-party app stores on iPhones and iPads. This means iOS users cannot download apps from alternative app stores unless they jailbreak their devices, which voids warranties and introduces security risks.

Several antitrust cases have targeted Apple’s “walled garden” approach. For instance, the Epic Games lawsuit in 2020 accused Apple of monopolistic practices by forcing developers to use its in-app payment system, which includes a 15-30% commission on transactions. Despite pressure, Apple has been more resistant to opening its ecosystem compared to Google. However, in countries like South Korea and the European Union (EU), regulatory changes are forcing Apple to allow alternative payment systems, with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) likely pushing Apple toward more open practices.

Differences Between Google and Apple

• Google: Android users can already sideload apps (installing apps outside the Play Store), and this ruling simply amplifies access to third-party app stores within the platform. Google’s ecosystem is more open by nature compared to Apple’s.

• Apple: The iOS ecosystem is more locked down, and Apple strictly controls which apps can be installed on its devices. While legal challenges are ongoing, Apple hasn’t been ordered to open its App Store to rivals on the same scale as Google—yet. The pressure on Apple is intensifying, though.

Why is Google Facing More Immediate Changes?

• Android’s Market Share: Android holds the majority market share globally, meaning regulators see more urgency in addressing potential monopolistic practices on such a widely used platform.

• Ecosystem Flexibility: Google’s Android system was designed to be more open to developers and users, allowing apps to be distributed through other stores like Samsung’s Galaxy Store or the Amazon Appstore. This means it’s technically easier for Google to comply with such rulings compared to Apple, which built a more closed-off system from the start.

Apple’s Potential Future

With the EU’s Digital Markets Act coming into effect, it’s expected that Apple may eventually have to make similar changes to allow third-party app stores on its platform. But, as of now, Apple is only opening up in limited areas (like South Korea’s alternative payment systems ruling) rather than embracing third-party app stores fully.

Conclusion: Google’s Ruling is a First Step

While Google’s Play Store is facing immediate changes due to regulatory action, Apple is still largely maintaining control over its App Store. However, the broader trend across the world is pushing for more competition, and Apple may not be able to maintain its tight grip on the iOS app ecosystem for much longer.

So for now, the ruling applies mainly to Google, but it could pave the way for similar actions targeting Apple in the near future, particularly in regions with strong antitrust regulations like the EU.