Apple is making big changes to their browser options for those in the EU, with a dedicated section to be added for changing default apps and the added ability to delete apps.
The company announced the news on Thursday (August 22) through an Apple Developer update. The team says that “by the end of this year, we’ll make changes to the browser choice screen, default apps, and app deletion for iOS and iPadOS for users in the EU.”
The changes are being brought in due to the ‘ongoing’ and ‘continuing dialogue’ with the European Commission about compliance with the Digital Market Act’s requirements.
The Act aims to create a more diverse and innovative digital ecosystem, with consumers having wider choices and more options. The introduction of the legislation has caused many major brands to scramble and tweak their practices to be compliant.
“Developers of browsers offered in the browser choice screen in the EU will have additional information about their browser shown to users who view the choice screen, and will get access to more data about the performance of the choice screen.
“The updated choice screen will be shown to all EU users who have Safari set as their default browser,” as the Digital Market Act requires brands to provide a choice.
The screen will also be displayed the first time a user in the EU opens Safari on their iPhone. A full list of other browsers is available online, with each country having around 12 to choose from.
“For users in the EU, iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 will also include a new Default Apps section in Settings that lists defaults available to each user.
“In future software updates, users will get new default settings for dialing phone numbers, sending messages, translating text, navigation, managing passwords, keyboards, and call spam filters.”
For the first time, the App Store, Messages, Photos, Camera, and Safari apps will now be deletable for users in the EU.
This marks a significant change as these apps have previously remained on the Apple project, regardless of whether users wish to delete them or not.
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