Apple Backtracks on Plan to Limit Web Apps After Backlash and Regulatory Pressure in EU
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Apple reversed its decision to remove support for Home Screen web apps in the EU after backlash from developers and the threat of an investigation.
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Home Screen web apps allow web apps to function more like native iOS apps. Apple planned to remove support to comply with the EU's Digital Markets Act.
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Critics accused Apple of trying to limit the web as a threat to the App Store. Groups like Open Web Advocacy lobbied Apple to reverse course.
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Apple conceded and will keep Home Screen web app support in iOS 17.4, but critics say more concessions are needed for a level playing field.
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It's unclear how Apple will reconcile DMA requirements to support alternate browsers with its stance that Home Screen web apps rely on its WebKit engine.