Apple is once again shaking up its App Store and iOS policies in response to mounting pressure from the European Union. The tech giant, long known for its tightly controlled ecosystem, is now opening the doors wider for iPhone and iPad users within the EU. This move comes on the heels of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which has been pushing major tech companies to provide more options and freedoms to consumers.
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a broader browser selection screen. Starting with iOS 18, users will be prompted to choose their default browser from a list that includes not just Apple’s Safari, but also alternatives like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and more. This selection screen will appear even if Safari was previously set as the default, ensuring that users are aware of all their options. The change is not just limited to new devices; even users migrating from an old iPhone to a new one will see this screen if Safari was their previous choice.
But Apple isn’t stopping at browsers. The company is also expanding the range of apps that can be set as defaults. A new “Default Apps” section in iOS and iPadOS will allow users to set defaults for everything from navigation to password managers and spam filters. This update is set to roll out in the coming months, further eroding Apple’s once ironclad control over which apps dominate its devices.
Perhaps the most groundbreaking change is Apple’s decision to allow users to completely delete core apps like the App Store, Messages, and Safari. This marks a dramatic shift for Apple, which has always bundled these apps as essential parts of the iPhone experience. The EU’s influence is clear: by allowing these deletions, Apple is essentially giving users the power to strip their devices down to the basics, removing nearly all traces of Apple’s software ecosystem if they choose.
Apple has also made it easy for users to reinstall these apps should they change their minds. For example, if a user decides to delete the App Store, they can easily bring it back through a simple option in the settings menu.
However, Apple remains cautious about fully embracing the EU’s demands. The company has held back on rolling out some of its latest AI features in the region, citing concerns over privacy and data security. Apple argues that the interoperability requirements of the DMA could compromise the integrity of its products.
This wave of changes is a clear indication of the EU’s growing influence over how tech giants operate within its borders. For Apple, it’s a delicate balancing act between maintaining its brand identity and complying with regulatory demands. The coming months will likely see even more shifts as the company continues to navigate this new landscape.