Apple will align with new regulations ofEuropean Union, in particular to Digital markets act (DMA), marking a break with a historical taboo for the company founded by Steve Jobs: theApp Store will no longer be the only channel for install new uses on iPad and iPhone. The European regulation aims to counter the abuse of dominant position of the so-called "gatekeepers" in digital markets, such as Google, Amazon, Apple, Meta and Microsoft, and applies to companies with over 45 million monthly users in the EU, 10 thousand users annual trading, a market capitalization of at least 75 billion euros or an annual turnover of 7,5 billion euros.
iPhone, what has changed since March?
The changes will take effect starting from March new iOS 17.4 operating system and will involve, for example, the sharing of NFC technology of iPhones outside of Apple Pay, allowing bank apps to directly offer contactless payments without going through Apple Pay. Developers will also be able to use web engines other than Webkit (which powers Safari), allowing for greater customization of interactive web page experiences.
There are also changes in payment processes, with developers able to choose vendors other than Apple and inform European users about promotions outside of their apps. However, it is important to note that Apple will not provide support for issues resulting from these choices, nor will it issue refunds.
Developers will have the opportunity to offer app on the traditional App Store or use other marketplaces, but they will have to go through a review by Apple to ensure security and prevent fraud. A “core technology fee” will be charged to major developers, even without using Apple's payment services.
Among the new features, users will have freedom of choice for the browser,email app and the default payments service, no longer limited to Safari, Mail and Wallet.
Installing apps from other digital stores on iPhone: will it be more risky?
In a statement, Phil Schiller, Apple's vice president of product marketing, said: “The changes announced today comply with the requirements of the EU Digital Markets Act and help protect user privacy and security from increasing threats. Our priority remains creating the best and safest experience possible for users in Europe and around the world." However, he also raised concerns about the changes, arguing that European users' experience may not be "as good as the rest of the world" and that the ability to detect and respond to scams could be compromised.
In the official note, Apple specified that it will take measures to reduce risks deriving from the DMA within the limits imposed by the legislation.
