Apple has announced changes for users in the European Union to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which will come into effect on March 7th. These changes include more than 600 new APIs for developers to access browser engines, in-app payment processes, app distribution, and app data analysis. Apple also stated that these changes will come with new user security measures to reduce risks associated with the DMA guidelines and provide a secure Apple experience for customers in the EU.
All the details about these changes can be found on the developer support page, with key highlights including:
– Users can choose to download iOS apps through alternative stores.
– Developers can create stores for app downloads.
– Users can choose to use non-WebKit based browsers.
– Developers can request access to iPhone features that rely on hardware and software integration in iOS, such as NFC payment systems.
– Safari will display the default browser selection page, eliminating the need for users to go to Settings.
– Apps can offer additional in-app payment methods, including external payment links.
Apple has also announced additional security controls for app developers in the EU. These measures include the requirement for apps to undergo additional certification if they are available for download in alternative stores, stores needing to use verified data to display app details, developers creating stores needing approval and verification from Apple, and the addition of malware app scanning processes.
These changes will take effect starting with iOS 17.4. Currently, Apple has released a beta version for developers to test the compatibility of their apps.
TLDR: Apple is introducing changes to comply with DMA regulations in the European Union. These changes include new APIs for developers and enhanced user security measures. Users can download iOS apps from alternative stores, and developers can create their own stores. Safari will now display the default browser selection page, and apps can offer additional in-app payment methods. Apple has also implemented stricter security controls for EU app developers. These changes will be implemented in iOS 17.4, and a beta version is currently available for testing.
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