Update: Apple said MacRumors that “the App Store showing the app verification screen in the EU is a bug and will be fixed before iOS 17.4 is released to users.” The original story is below.
With the latest iOS 17.4 beta 4, Apple now treats the iPhone App Store the same way it will treat third-party app stores in Europe. He was the first to notice this User X’s iSoftware updates and confirmed BGREuropean editor Chris Smith; Apple wants its users – or at least the European Commission – to know that it treats the iPhone App Store the same as any other third-place market. Except it doesn’t make sense.
When you try to download an app with your iPhone running iOS 17.4 in Europe, the App Store will prompt you again to verify the app’s information before it is installed. At the moment, the “Learn more” link goes to Apple’s website, but it will likely go to the support document once iOS 17.4 is released.
In addition, you can see a brief description of the application and its screenshots, and then you can install the application or cancel it. This is part of a wider change Apple needs to make to enable third-party app stores for iPhone users as part of Europe’s Digital Markets Act. However, Cupertino has created new rules for third-party developers to add their own options, which include:
- Notarization for iOS applications — a basic review that applies to all applications, regardless of their distribution channel, focused on platform integrity and user protection. Notarization involves a combination of automated checks and human review.
- Application installation sheets — that use notarization data to provide quick descriptions of apps and their functions before download, including developer, screenshots, and other essential information.
- Authorization for Marketplace Developers — to ensure that marketplace developers adhere to ongoing requirements that help protect users and developers.
- Additional protections against malware — prevent iOS apps from running if they are found to contain malware after being installed on a user’s device.
Apple cannot treat its own App Store as a third-party marketplace
The main reason Apple is adding another layer of interaction to its store is to make the App Store feel like it’s playing by the same rules as upcoming third-party marketplaces. But who will charge Apple a fee for using the App Store, or who will fine the company if malware is found in its marketplace?
Over the past few weeks, BGR has reported some copycat apps or malware that bypasses legitimate apps. While the third-party market will surely suffer from bad reviews, who will do the same with Apple?
While I understand the company’s drive to look like another competitor, Apple still owns the platform and everything still has to be done around it thanks to its own APIs, rules and practices.
With iOS 17.4 expected in the coming weeks, we’ll finally understand the true impact of Europe’s Digital Markets Act on the iPhone ecosystem. Until then, we can only glimpse what the future holds. However, I don’t think Apple should try to pass off its own store as equal to other competitors. They are not the same.