Apple and Google app stores get thumbs down from White House

By FATIMA HUSSEIN
Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — Apple and Google say they disagree with a Commerce Department report accusing them of operating mobile app stores that stifle competition. President Joe Biden is convening his competition council for an update on efforts to promote competition and lower prices. Wednesday’s Commerce Department report says the current app store model, dominated by California-based Apple and Google, is “harmful to consumers and developers” by inflating prices and reducing innovation. Apple says it “respectfully” disagrees with conclusions in the report. Google says its Android software “enables more choice and competition” than other systems. On another competition front, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is pushing forward with efforts to limit credit card late fees.