In response to the impending enforcement of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in March, Apple has unveiled significant changes to iOS, Safari, and the App Store in the European Union, introducing new controls, disclosures, and expanded protections aimed at mitigating privacy and security risks associated with the DMA.
A major development is the allowance of third-party app stores on iOS for the first time, marking a departure from Apple’s previous exclusivity. These changes are slated to be implemented with the release of iOS 17.4 in March, comprising over 600 new APIs, enhanced app analytics, functionalities for alternative browser engines, and options for processing app payments and distributing iOS apps. Apple emphasizes that while the new measures reduce risks, they don’t entirely eliminate them.
Phil Schiller, Apple Fellow, stated, “The changes we’re announcing comply with the Digital Markets Act’s requirements in the European Union, while helping to protect EU users from the unavoidable increased privacy and security threats this regulation brings.”
Developers will have the flexibility to adopt the new tools and terms for alternative app distribution and payment processing. Importantly, developers can opt to stay on the existing business terms if they prefer. Apple is introducing safeguards to counteract the potential privacy and security threats arising from the new options for payment processing and app downloading on iOS.
To assist EU users in navigating the complexities introduced by the DMA, Apple plans to share resources in March, offering guidance on the changes and best practices for addressing new risks associated with app downloads and payments outside the App Store.
These updates will be accessible to users in the 27 EU countries starting March 2024. Additionally, Apple has announced new options for streaming games and over 50 forthcoming reports for developers globally, covering engagement, commerce, app usage, and more.
