Apple Complies with EU Regulations: Allows iOS Users to Delete Pre-installed Apps by Year's End

Apple Complies with EU Regulations: Allows iOS Users to Delete Pre-installed Apps by Year's EndApple has announced that it will update its iOS and iPadOS systems by the end of the year, offering European users more choices, including the ability to change their default browser and delete some pre-installed system apps. This move comes in response to the European Commission's first round of investigations into Apple under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in March

Apple Complies with EU Regulations: Allows iOS Users to Delete Pre-installed Apps by Year's End

Apple has announced that it will update its iOS and iPadOS systems by the end of the year, offering European users more choices, including the ability to change their default browser and delete some pre-installed system apps. This move comes in response to the European Commission's first round of investigations into Apple under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in March.

Apple states that the update aims to comply with the DMA's requirements and avoid hefty fines of up to 10% of its annual global turnover. EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager previously stated that Article 6(3) of the DMA obliges companies to allow users to delete pre-installed system applications and change default settings.

Currently, users can delete all apps except Settings and Phone, including Safari, App Store, Photos, Camera, and Messages. Apple claims this move will empower EU users with more freedom to choose and use applications based on their individual needs.

To comply with the DMA, Apple has already introduced a pop-up for default browser choices in iOS 17.4, allowing users to select their preferred browser and support third-party search engines. This change signifies that users are no longer bound to Safari as their default browser and can opt for Chrome, Firefox, or other alternatives.

Apple's move is seen as a positive signal of adaptation to the EU's digital market regulatory trends. As the DMA is implemented, more tech giants will face new regulatory challenges and need to adjust their business models to meet the new rules.

It's worth noting that Apple's previous practices have been criticized for anti-competitive behavior, such as forcing users to use Safari as their default browser and restricting third-party app stores. The current update demonstrates Apple's efforts to adapt to the new regulatory environment and avoid penalties for violating the DMA.

The EU's DMA aims to regulate the digital market, prevent large tech companies from abusing their market dominance, and promote fair competition. The law requires tech giants to provide users with more options and prevent them from exploiting their data advantage to harm competitors.

Apple's update will bring more choice and convenience to EU users and sets a precedent for other tech companies, highlighting the need for companies to adapt to the changing market landscape in response to regulatory pressures.