Apple Opens iPhone to Third-Party Apps in EU to Comply with Antitrust Rules
• iOS 17.4 allows sideloading of third-party apps in the EU to comply with Digital Markets Act, opening up the iPhone ecosystem.
• The update removes support for Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) on the iPhone home screen in the EU over security concerns with alternate browsers.
• iOS 17.4 enhances the Stolen Device Protection feature to require a 1-hour delay before changing security settings, even when in familiar locations.
• The changes in iOS 17.4 are game-changing for EU users and could have implications for iPhone users worldwide if adopted more broadly.
• Apple had to release iOS 17.4 by March 6th to meet the EU deadline for compliance with the Digital Markets Act.