Critics are pushing back against the Open App Markets Act, but what is it? The Open App Markets Act would require companies like Google and Apple to allow users to download other app stores and switch apps set as defaults. For example, the bill would stop iPhone users from being required to only use the Apple Store on their devices. At the Capitol, some lawmakers are trying to expedite a vote on the bill.
According to NetChoice, the Open App Markets Act has increased security risk. The bill allows for using your own payment system, making it easier for third-party actors to infect your device with malware and steal consumer data. This makes it more difficult to keep users safe.
Critics say the bill would also oversimplify the app store market and drive up your prices if passed. The bill covers Google and Apple but ignores app stores like Microsoft’s. The act also ignores the ability to buy outside the app. For example, Netflix customers can only sign-up for an account on the Netflix website. Large corporations that support the act, like Spotify, don’t want to use the in-app payment service. However, the corporation could do as Netflix and require sign-up through its website.
Those familiar with the bill say it is highly unlikely the bill will pass in the Senate before the new year. If there is one objection, the process will be derailed, and other issues have higher priority ahead of 2023.
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