Apple Unveils Revamped iOS, Safari, and App Store for European Union Users

Apple is making changes to its iOS, Safari, and App Store platforms in order to comply with the Digital Markets Act in the EU, which includes new APIs, app analytics, and payment options, but also introduces new risks that Apple is working to mitigate.

Over 600 new APIs will provide developers with more options and flexibility for creating and distributing iOS apps.
Expanded app analytics will give developers more insight into user engagement and usage, allowing them to make more informed decisions.
The reduced commission rate for iOS apps on the App Store will benefit developers financially, potentially encouraging more app development and innovation.

Apple has announced a series of changes to its iOS, Safari, and App Store platforms in order to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union (EU). These changes, which will be rolled out beginning in March 2024, include over 600 new APIs, expanded app analytics, functionality for alternative browser engines, and options for processing app payments and distributing iOS apps.

While these changes aim to comply with the DMA and provide a more secure experience for EU users, they also introduce new risks such as malware, fraud, scams, and privacy and security threats. To mitigate these risks, Apple is implementing safeguards like Notarization for iOS apps, authorization for marketplace developers, and disclosures on alternative payments.

However, it’s important to note that despite these safeguards, there are still inherent risks associated with the new options for processing payments and downloading apps. Apple acknowledges that it cannot eliminate all of these risks, but it is committed to reducing them as much as possible within the DMA’s constraints.

Developers can learn more about these changes on the Apple Developer Support page and start testing new capabilities in the iOS 17.4 beta. Apple will also provide resources to help EU users understand the changes and navigate the complexities they bring.

In addition to the changes for EU apps, Apple is also introducing new options for streaming games and over 50 forthcoming reports on areas like engagement, commerce, and app usage.

The changes to iOS include new options for distributing iOS apps from alternative app marketplaces, frameworks and APIs for creating alternative app marketplaces, frameworks and APIs for alternative browser engines, and an interoperability request form for developers to submit additional requests.

Apple is also sharing DMA-compliant changes impacting contactless payments, including new APIs enabling developers to use NFC technology in their banking and wallet apps throughout the European Economic Area. Users will also have the ability to select a third-party contactless payment app or alternative app marketplace as their default.

To protect users, Apple is implementing safeguards like Notarization for iOS apps, app installation sheets, authorization for marketplace developers, and additional malware protections. These measures aim to reduce privacy and security risks associated with apps, such as malware, scams, fraud, and exposure to illicit or harmful content.

However, Apple has less control over risks associated with apps that contain scams, fraud, abuse, or alternative browser engines. These risks may negatively impact the user experience and system performance.

Regarding Safari, Apple is introducing a new choice screen that will prompt EU users to choose a default browser from a list of options. This change is a result of the DMA’s requirements but may interrupt the user experience and create confusion for users.

On the App Store, Apple is sharing changes that affect developers with apps in the EU. These changes include new options for using payment service providers (PSPs), processing payments via link-out, business planning tools, app store product page labels, in-app disclosure sheets, new app review processes, and expanded data portability.

Apple will also provide new business terms for developers’ apps in the EU. These terms include a reduced commission rate for iOS apps on the App Store, a payment processing fee, and a core technology fee. Developers can choose to adopt these new terms or stick with Apple’s existing terms.

Overall, these changes aim to comply with the DMA’s requirements while providing developers and users with more options and flexibility. However, they also introduce new risks that Apple is working to mitigate. Developers and users can expect more detailed resources explaining the options available to them and best practices for protecting privacy and security.

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Background Information

About Apple: Apple Inc., known for its iconic products, was founded by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne in 1976. The company has since revolutionized the technology landscape with innovations like the Macintosh computer, iPod, iPhone, iPad, and more. Renowned for its emphasis on design, user experience, and ecosystem integration, Apple's devices and software have made a profound impact on various industries. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Apple remains a global technology leader.