UK probes Apple’s App Store for ‘stifling competition’ and ‘hurting consumers’

UK authorities have launched an investigation into Apple’s App Store over concerns it has a dominant role that stifles competition and hurts consumers.

The Competition and Markets Authority said Thursday it was looking into “suspected breaches of competition law” by Apple. The announcement adds to regulatory scrutiny of the iPhone maker’s app distribution platform, which is also the subject of three antitrust probes by the European Union’s executive Commission.

Apple said the App Store is “a safe and trusted place for customers” and a “great business opportunity for developers.”