Apple announced on Thursday that it will soon allow iPhone and iPad users in the European Union (EU) region to change default apps, remove first-party apps, and more. The decision was made in compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) which prohibits tech companies from practicing anti-competitive policies. The Cupertino-based tech giant had already allowed third-party apps and app marketplaces on its devices in the region and also allowed users to change the default browser. With the upcoming update, the company is expected to integrate a more open ecosystem.
Apple will let EU iPhone, iPad users change default apps
In a newsroom post on its developer website, Apple announced that it will be making changes to three aspects of its operating system for iPhone and iPad users in the EU. This will allow users to see more information in the browser options screen, change more default apps, and enable the removal of more first-party apps.
The company claimed that most of these changes will be introduced with new updates by the end of this year. Additionally, the tech giant is also continuing talks with the European Commission regarding compliance with the DMA requirement in these areas.
iPhone browser selection screen
Photo Credit: Apple
While Apple already lets iPhone and iPad users in the EU change the default browser from Safari to others, it is now making the process of changing the browser easier for users. Once the update arrives, users in the EU region who still use Safari as their default browser will see the full list of default browsers on a new screen, where they can make their choice.
This options screen will also show the browser’s App Store caption. Additionally, users will also have access to more information about the performance of the Favorites screen.
Apple will also expand the list of default apps that can be changed with the upcoming update. This will also include a new default apps in Section settings Which will list all the built-in apps available to the users. The company said it will add options to change default apps for phone calls, messages, keyboard, password manager and more.
Next year, it will also let users change default apps to translate text, navigation, call spam filter apps, and more.
Finally, Apple will also allow users to remove more first-party apps in the EU region. These will include App Store, Messages, Photos, Camera and Safari. Notably, the tech giant had never before allowed users to delete its first-party apps.
