Online marketing

CMA updates timetable for TV industry anti-competitive behaviour probe

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has updated the administrative timetable for its ongoing investigation into suspected anti-competitive behaviour in the television industry. The probe, launched on 11 October 2023, focuses on the purchase of freelance services and employment of staff supporting the production, creation, and broadcasting of non-sport television content in the UK. The CMA is investigating several major industry players, including the BBC and ITV, for potential breaches of the Competition Act 1998. This update suggests the investigation is progressing, though the CMA has not yet reached a conclusion or issued any statements of objection.

CMA publishes provisional findings on mobile browsers competition

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published its provisional decision in the market investigation into mobile browsers and cloud gaming. The CMA has provisionally identified competition concerns in the mobile browsers market. This development follows a series of working papers and updates throughout 2024, including the recommencement of the investigation in January after a Court of Appeal judgment. The CMA has set a deadline of 5pm on 13 December 2024 for interested parties to submit responses to the provisional findings.

European Commission initiates review of Technology Transfer rules

The European Commission has published findings from its evaluation of Commission Regulation (EU) No 316/2014 (the Technology Transfer Block Exemption Regulation or TTBER) and accompanying Guidelines. The Commission has determined that while the rules have been largely effective, improvements are needed in areas such as market share thresholds, data licensing, and technology pools. The Commission will now launch an impact assessment to explore policy options for revising the rules before their expiration in April 2026. A public consultation is planned for December 2024, allowing stakeholders to provide input on potential changes to ensure the rules remain fit for purpose in the evolving technological landscape.4o

Commons Committee has launched inquiry into social media algorithms

The Science, Innovation and Technology Committee has initiated an inquiry into the relationship between social media algorithms, generative AI, and the proliferation of harmful online content. This investigation, prompted by the summer 2024 anti-immigration riots, aims to scrutinise the role of social media platforms in disseminating false information. The inquiry will assess the efficacy of existing and proposed regulations, including the Online Safety Act, and explore potential additional measures. Written submissions addressing various aspects of the issue are invited until 18 December, with a focus on algorithmic content ranking, business models, and accountability for harmful content spread.