In a major shake-up for the iPhone maker, Apple will soon have to open up key aspects of its tightly controlled iOS ecosystem to third-party alternatives in the European Union. The changes are prompted by the EU’s new technical regulations on the Digital Market (DMA), which aim to boost competition by preventing big tech “gatekeepers” from unfairly favoring their own products and services.
Web browser options when setting up
One of the most visible changes coming to iPhones in the EU is the ability for users to select their preferred web browser during the device setup process. Instead of Apple’s default Safari browser, users will be offered a choice of web browsers available in their market, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and others.
Developers will also gain more flexibility, as they will now be allowed to use web rendering engines other than Apple’s WebKit in their browser apps and in-app browsing components. This could allow browsers like Chrome and Firefox to run smoothly on iOS.
Ability to delete Safari
In another browser-related change, iPhone users in the EU will soon be able to completely remove Apple’s Safari web browser from their devices if they choose. Currently, Safari cannot be deleted because it is deeply integrated with iOS. However, the DMA requires Apple to allow users to remove preinstalled apps they don’t want.
Message Interoperability Challenges
DMA also aims to enable greater interoperability between messaging platforms. However, this is complex, with Apple’s iMessage currently exempt due to its limited reach in the EU compared to Meta’s WhatsApp and Messenger.
Those apps must start allowing basic messaging interoperability with competitors like Telegram and Signal, but only if specifically requested. Full functionality such as group chats and voice/video calls across platforms may take much longer.
Third-party app stores and payment options
Probably the biggest change is that Apple can no longer force developers to use its App Store as the sole distribution method for iOS apps in the EU market. Third-party app stores will be allowed, allowing developers to potentially circumvent Apple’s strict app review rules and contentious 15-30% commission on digital sales.
In addition, Apple will enable alternative payment systems besides Apple Pay for mobile apps and digital purchases. Payment app developers will be able to access the iPhone’s NFC chip for contactless payments.
Easier data transfer to Android
Another DMA requirement is to make it easier for iPhone users to transfer data and switch to Android devices or other mobile operating systems. Apple says it’s working on “more user-friendly solutions” for cross-platform data migration, though this capability isn’t expected until late 2025.
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