Apple Announces Major iOS Updates in the European Union with iOS 17.4
Apple has officially announced significant changes to its iOS, Safari, and App Store services for users in the European Union (EU). These updates are in compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and aim to offer more flexibility and control to both developers and users while maintaining security and privacy standards. Before highlighting these updates it worths pointing out that Apple is also officially allowing developers to build native Game Streaming applications (global change).
Key Changes to iOS:
Alternative App Marketplaces:
New APIs and tools for developers to offer iOS apps on alternative app marketplaces.
Frameworks for marketplace developers to manage app installations and updates.
Browser Engine Diversity:
Support for alternative browser engines besides Apple’s WebKit for browser apps and in app browsing.
Interoperability Enhancements:
A new form for developers to request additional interoperability with iPhone and iOS features.
Contactless Payment Options:
Introduction of new APIs for NFC technology in banking and wallet apps.
Users can set third-party contactless payment apps as their default.
Safeguards and Risks:
Notarization for iOS Apps:
All apps, regardless of distribution channel, will undergo a baseline review for platform integrity and user protection.
App Installation Sheets:
Provide essential app information before download, based on Notarization.
Marketplace Developer Authorization:
Ensures marketplace developers adhere to ongoing user protection requirements.
Malware Protection:
Additional checks to prevent launching of iOS apps containing malware.
Changes to Safari:
Default Browser Choice:
A new choice screen for EU users to select their default browser from various options.
App Store Adjustments:
Payment Service Providers (PSPs):
New options for developers to process payments within apps using PSPs.
External Payment Processing:
Developers can direct users to external websites for transactions.
Enhanced User Disclosures:
Informing users about alternative payment processing and associated risks.
New Business Terms for EU Apps:
Reduced Commission Rates:
Lower commission rates for iOS apps on the App Store.
Payment Processing Fee:
An additional fee for using the App Store’s payment processing.
Core Technology Fee:
A new fee for apps distributed from the App Store or alternative marketplaces, based on the installation threshold.
These updates are set to provide more autonomy and flexibility for developers in the EU while still prioritizing user security and privacy. The changes are scheduled to be effective from March 2024, with Apple committed to guiding users and developers through this transition.
