The Open App Markets Act targets large technology companies that control both major app stores and operating systems (like Apple and Google) to increase competition in the app economy. The bill prohibits these "covered companies"—defined as those with over 50 million monthly U.S. users—from forcing developers to use their payment systems, giving their own apps preferential treatment in search results, or punishing developers who use competing app stores or payment methods. The legislation also requires these companies to allow users to install apps from third-party sources, set their own default apps, and provide developers fair access to operating system features and documentation. The bill grants enforcement authority to the Federal Trade Commission, state attorneys general, and individual developers to sue for damages, with affected developers eligible for triple damages plus attorney fees. The law takes effect 180 days after passage, and the FTC must report on its competitive impact within three years.
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