Apple has announced significant changes for iPhone and iPad users in the European Union, offering greater flexibility in managing their devices.
Starting this year, users will gain enhanced control over their default applications and be able to delete more of Apple’s built-in apps.
Apple will introduce several updates in response to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which seeks to address anti-competitive practices among major tech firms.
These changes include a more comprehensive choice screen for selecting default browsers and expanded options for modifying default apps.
Previously, Apple allowed EU users to change their default browser from Safari to other options and supported third-party apps and app marketplaces. The upcoming update will simplify these processes further.
Users will soon see a new screen that displays a full list of available browsers, complete with App Store descriptions, making it easier to select their preferred option.
Additionally, users can access more detailed performance information about the choice screen.
The update will also introduce a new Default Apps section in the Settings menu.
This feature will list all built-in apps, allowing users to set defaults for functions such as phone calls, messages, keyboards, and password managers.
In the coming year, Apple plans to expand this capability to include default apps for text translation, navigation, call spam filters, and other functions.
Moreover, Apple will permit EU users to delete a broader range of first-party apps, including the App Store, Messages, Photos, Camera, and Safari.
This change represents a significant shift from Apple’s previous policy, which did not allow the deletion of its built-in apps.
These updates, detailed on Apple’s developer website, are scheduled to be implemented by the end of the year.
Apple also discussed with the European Commission the need to comply with the DMA’s requirements.
