Apple unveiled major changes to iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 in the E.U. as part of its efforts to comply with the Digital Markets Act. European users have more control over default apps, browser choice, and the ability to remove long-standing pre-installed apps like Safari.
The “browser choice screen,” introduced in March with the DMA, appears when Safari is opened after updating to iOS 17.4. This allows E.U. users to choose their default internet browser, instead of it being automatically Safari.
Changes will be made to the browser choice screen in iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, including browser descriptions.
Apple will let users choose alternative default apps for phone calls, messaging, and password management. They can also delete more pre-installed apps from their device.
Most changes will arrive by the end of this year according to Apple’s official update.
The Cupertino company said, “These updates result from our ongoing dialogue with the European Commission about compliance with the Digital Market Act’s requirements.”
A spokesperson for the European Commission told TechRepublic they will monitor the effectiveness of the solutions in achieving the DMA’s objectives after implementation.
The new browser choice screen will provide users with a clear understanding of alternatives to Safari. E.U. users will see 12 browser options with descriptions from each browser’s App Store page.
Users will have to scroll through the entire list of alternatives before selecting a new default browser. If the chosen browser isn’t installed on the device, it will automatically download and replace the Safari icon on the Home Screen.
E.U. users can set third-party defaults for phone calls, messaging, keyboards, password management, and spam call filters. A Default Apps section will be added to the Settings app for managing default apps.
Apple will allow users to delete core apps for the first time, giving users more control over the apps they use and leveling the playing field for third-party app providers.
Apple made changes to comply with the DMA but faced an investigation for alleged gatekeeping in apps and browsers. It was charged for violating the DMA and is under investigation for its business terms for developers related to hosting iOS apps on third-party platforms.
Apple can respond or take actions to address concerns before a decision is made, likely the reason for its latest set of changes. The European Commission will base the next steps in the investigation on the effectiveness of the new solutions in achieving the DMA’s objectives.
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