Apple announces changes to iOS, Safari, and the App Store in the European Union (apple.com)

Article summary

Apple has announced changes to iOS, Safari, and the App Store in the European Union to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The changes include new options for distributing iOS apps from alternative app marketplaces, new frameworks and APIs for alternative browser engines, and new options for processing payments. Apple is also introducing new safeguards to reduce privacy and security risks, such as Notarization for iOS apps and authorization for marketplace developers. These changes will be available to users in the 27 EU countries starting in March 2024.

Main themes

• Apple and DMA compliance
• browser engine options
• payment processing changes
• user experience and security
• market impact and competition
• regulatory requirements and compliance

What commenters say

• Some commenters believe that Apple is only doing the bare minimum to comply with the DMA regulations.
• Others think that the changes will lead to a better experience for users, with more options for browser engines and payment processing.
• There is disagreement about whether regular users care about the browser engine used in their browser, with some arguing that it makes a difference in the user experience and others claiming it is irrelevant.
• Some commenters are concerned about the potential risks and downsides of the changes, such as increased malware and scams.
• Others see the changes as an opportunity for innovation and improvement, with the potential for alternative browser engines to provide a better experience.
• There is also discussion about the potential impact on the market, with some predicting that the changes will lead to more competition and others thinking that it will have little effect.