TLDR: Apple announces reintroduction of the ability to create web app icons on iOS through Progressive Web App (PWA) in iOS 17.4 for EU users after initially removing it due to security concerns. This decision follows pressure from developers and advocacy groups. The move is seen as a temporary victory as Apple must comply with EU regulations to allow browsers and web apps to function on iOS fairly.
Apple has announced the reintroduction of the feature that allows users to create web app icons on iOS devices through Progressive Web App (PWA) technology. This feature will be available in iOS 17.4 for users in the EU. This decision comes after developers raised concerns about the removal of this capability by Apple, citing security reasons due to the need to support various browser engines. However, some developers believe that Apple’s actions were aimed at limiting competition from other browsers, leading to complaints filed with the EU for investigation.
In a statement, Apple explained that the complexity of supporting multiple browser engines on the Home screen of iOS had negative implications for user security and privacy. Therefore, they had initially decided to discontinue this feature. Nonetheless, Apple has responded to requests to reinstate this feature but with the condition that it must operate on the WebKit foundation for security reasons in line with iOS architecture.
Open Web Advocacy, a leading organization advocating for open web standards, has raised this issue with the EU and Apple. They view this as a short-term victory as Apple must abide by the Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulations, ensuring fair access for all browsers and web apps to function on iOS. Advocacy groups will continue to push for further progress in this area.
Source: 9to5Mac and Open Web Advocacy
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