features that improve the Who does the DMCC social aspect of gaming, such Bill apply to? as friend lists, messaging and community forums. The DMCC Bill covers subscription contracts for the supply of goods, Scrutiny of subscription services or digital content in services exchange for payment, and which auto-renew for a fixed or indefinite The increasing popularity of period and/or offer a free/discounted subscription services has led to trial and then auto-renew at a greater scrutiny of these models higher rate after the trial period. and potential ‘subscription traps’. As a result, the issue is being dealt The Bill’s enforcement provisions with in draft UK legislation in the form are triggered when there is a ‘UK of the Digital Markets, Competition connection’, which is satisfied if: and Consumer (DMCC) Bill. the trader has a place of business At the time of writing, the DMCC in the UK Bill is nearing completion (so the the trader carries on business following is based on the latest in the UK, or available draft), but once in effect, it will have a material impact on the activities, by any means, are subscription service providers directed to consumers in the UK. and their approach to providing Where the conditions are met, the information and communications new provisions will apply to paid to consumers. In particular, this subscriptions for video games, will affect communications of pre- including to promotional trials. contractual information, reminder notices, and cancellation rights. 72