A new report targeted Apple and Google's app store policies for stifling competition.  The report was released by Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).  The report said the current mobile app ecosystem is not a level playing field and is harmful to developers and consumers.  The report added that Apple's and Google's app store policies created unnecessary barriers and costs for app developers, such as fees for access and restrictions that favor one app over the other.  NTIA recommended a more transparent app review process, limits on pre-installed apps, a ban on rules that prevent sideloading and other methods to install apps, support for third-party payments, and support for links to developer's websites from apps.  NTIA prepared the report with inputs from various stakeholders, including private industry, civil society, and academia.