For iOS 17.4, Apple is making sweeping changes to iPhones in the EU, including finally giving users the ability to run native third-party browsers on their phone.
You might be wondering, “Aren't there already third-party browsers on iOS?” Not quite. The way things currently work is that developers must rework their software to run on the WebKit framework, effectively turning browsers like Chrome on iOS into a redesigned Safari. As a result, features that work well on Android don't work well on iOS. But in the future, the tech giant will allow companies to use their own engines “for browser apps and apps with in-app browsing experiences.” What's more, people can make their preferred browser the default on iPhone during setup. You will no longer be beholden to Safari.
This is a big problem for the everyday user. It means that Google Chrome, the world's most popular browser, will be able to deliver the intended experience to iOS for the first time. Of course, this includes other apps that run on the Chromium engine like Edge and Opera. Standalone options like Firefox are also part of this group.
Before developers can submit their independent software to the App Store, Apple will need to approve it. A new support page on Apple's developer website details all the criteria that teams must meet. It's a pretty long document, but the main thing is that browsers must have strong protections for iPhone owners, block third-party cookies, and be exclusive to the European Union.
App Store Update
As for the other changes, they focus on various App Store updates.
Apple will now allow people to install apps from “alternative app marketplaces” like the Google Play Store. However, there is one condition. Software downloaded from outside the App Store “will not be compatible” with platform features such as Request Purchase or Share Family Purchase.
Every app from a third-party app store must meet “notarization requirements” before being allowed on iPhones. according to 9To5Mac. The process involves complying with multiple automated checks and human review. Development teams must demonstrate that their application is secure, fully functional, and accurately represents its capabilities (no quick action should be taken against individuals). Once everything is settled, companies can freely distribute their service in their preferred market.
As for downloading apps, Apple's announcement doesn't address the issue at all. A recent Wall Street Journal report revealed that the tech giant plans to impose fees on platforms that allow downloading to occur. But the only money-related topics in the post revolve around offering developers new payment processing options and a reduced commission for iOS apps in the App Store.
These changes “will come into force in March” in 27 EU countries. As we get closer to the release date, Apple will release resources that explain the iOS ecosystem update in more detail.
Future expansion
If you live in the EU and want to try the revamp for yourself, iOS 17.4 beta is available to download through your iPhone's Settings menu. Make sure you are currently registered for Apple's Beta Software Program to gain access. Take a look at our gramGuide on installing an iOS 17 beta to learn how to do it.
Now the question is: will all this spread to the United States and elsewhere? Maybe, but not now. In another report from 9To5Mac, a series of statements from Apple make it very clear that it is not making changes because it wants to. It does so because the brand chooses to comply with the new rules established by the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
When asked about expanding the App Store update, Apple doesn't want to do it because it considers DMA changes insecure and doesn't want to expose others to potential dangers. That said, if the United States passes its own version of the WFD, we could see renewal elsewhere.
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