Apple announced a series of updates to its iOS and iPadOS platforms, specifically tailored for users within the European Union (EU), in response to the Digital Markets Act (DMA). These changes aim to comply with EU regulations while enhancing user control over their devices.

One of the biggest changes is the expanded default app settings. EU users will soon have the ability to set default apps for a broader range of functionalities, which include allowing users to choose default apps for making Phone calls and sending Messages, potentially opting for alternatives like WhatsApp over Apple’s own apps. Users will also be able to set default navigation and translation apps, allowing for preferences like Waze for navigation or any preferred translation service.

It will also be possible to change the defaults for other apps, like password managers, keyboards, and call spam filters, offering more integration with third-party services.

Apple is also making several of its core apps deletable. Regarding “core apps” like the App Store, Messages, Photos, Camera, and Safari will no longer be permanently installed on devices. Users can delete these apps, with the option to reinstall the App Store from Settings and other apps from the App Store itself. Only the Settings and Phone apps will remain non-deletable, ensuring basic functionality remains intact.

Changes to the User Experience

Users will also see changes on the browser selection screen. If the users default browser is Safari, a default browser selection screen is shown to the user. Enhancements to the default browser selection process include an updated Interface where users will be required to scroll through all available browsers before setting a default, with each browser’s description directly from its App Store listing. Also if a new default browser is not installed, its download progress will be shown directly on the choice screen, and it will replace Safari if it’s currently on the home screen or Dock.

The default apps section in settings is also getting a new look, a new section in the Settings app will centralize all default app settings, making management more intuitive for users.

On Security and User Experience, Apple emphasizes security through Notarization for iOS apps and authorizations for marketplace developers, aiming to mitigate risks associated with third-party app distribution and payment processing.

More changes are also expected on Apple’s fee structure. Changes suggest that 99% of developers might see reduced or maintained fees, with only 1% potentially facing a Core Technology Fee, indicating a shift towards a model that might affect small developers and innovation.

EU Regulations Are For EU Users Only

These updates, set to roll out with iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 by the end of 2024, reflect Apple’s commitment to adapting to regulatory demands while enhancing user autonomy over their device’s ecosystem. However, these changes are exclusive to EU users, marking a significant divergence from the global Apple experience.