Apple announced on Thursday that it will soon give iPhone and iPad users in the European Union (EU) region more options to change default apps, remove first-party apps, and more. The move comes in line with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which prohibits tech companies from engaging in anti-competitive policies. The Cupertino-based tech giant has already allowed third-party apps and app marketplaces on its devices in the region, and has also allowed users to change their default browser. The company is expected to integrate a more open ecosystem with the upcoming update.
Apple to allow iPhone and iPad users in EU to change default apps
In a newsroom article on its developer website, Apple announced that it will make changes to three aspects of its operating system for iPhone and iPad users in the EU. This will allow users to see more information on the browser selection screen, change more default apps and allow users to remove more first-party apps.
Most of these changes will be implemented with a new update by the end of this year, the company says. The tech giant is also continuing its dialogue with the European Commission on compliance with the DMA requirement in these areas.
iPhone Browser Selection Screen
Photo source: Apple
While Apple already allows iPhone and iPad users in the EU to change their default browser from Safari to another, it is now making the process of switching browsers easier for users. Once the update arrives, users in the EU region who still use Safari as their default browser will see the entire list of default browsers on a new screen where they can make their selections.
This selection screen will also show the browser’s App Store signature. In addition, users will have access to more information about the performance of the selection screen.
Apple will also increase the list of default apps that can be changed in the upcoming update. It will also include a new Default Apps section in Settings which will display all the built-in apps available to users. The company said it will add options to change default apps for calling, messaging, keyboards, password managers, and more.
Next year, users will also be able to change default apps for text translation, navigation, spam call filtering, and more.
Finally, Apple will allow users to remove more first-party apps in the EU region. These will include the App Store, News, Photos, Camera, and Safari. It is worth noting that the tech giant has never previously allowed users to remove its first-party apps.
