Florida lawmaker proposes forcing Apple to allow third-party app stores like EU

A Florida congresswoman has introduced a new bill targeting Apple, aiming to boost competition and expand consumer choice by mandating third-party marketplaces like the EU. U.S. Representative Kat Cammack (R-FL) has introduced the App Store Freedom Act (via The Verge), a bill aimed at increasing competition and consumer choice in the mobile app marketplace. The legislation targets major app store operators—those with over 100 million U.S. users—including the App Store. If enacted, the bill would require these companies to allow users to install third-party app stores and designate them as default, grant developers equal access to development tools, and permit the use of third-party payment systems. Additionally, it mandates the ability to remove or hide pre-installed apps—something Apple already does. The bill also seeks to prevent app stores from forcing developers to use the company’s in-app payment systems, imposing pricing parity requirements, or punishing developers for distrib ... Read full article.