Apple will allow EU third-party browsers to build web apps using custom engines

Apple will allow EU third-party browsers to build web apps using custom enginesIn iOS 18.2, which will be released later this year, Apple will allow third-party browsers in the EU to use their own custom engines to build web applications for the iPhone home screen

Apple will allow EU third-party browsers to build web apps using custom engines

In iOS 18.2, which will be released later this year, Apple will allow third-party browsers in the EU to use their own custom engines to build web applications for the iPhone home screen. This is a further extension of Apple's move in iOS 17.4, where it first allowed EU third-party browsers to use non-WebKit engines for browsing within standalone browsers and apps. Previously, Apple required all iOS browsers to use Safari's WebKit engine, including popular options like Chrome and Firefox.

According to new documentation found on Apple's developer website, the upcoming API will be EU-exclusive and enable web apps to use the same custom engine as their parent browser. This change comes after Apple reversed its earlier decision to completely remove web app support from EU devices, a move that drew scrutiny from the European Commission. However, while Apple announced support for alternative browser engines like Chrome's Blink and Firefox's Gecko in January, these engines have yet to appear on the iPhone.

iOS 18.2 will also bring further changes specifically for the EU, including the complete removal of functionality for core apps like the AppStore, Safari, Messages, Camera, and Photos. These changes indicate that Apple is working to comply with EU antitrust regulations aimed at promoting competition and curbing Apple's dominant position in the mobile ecosystem.

Outside the EU, the iOS 18.2 update will introduce new AppleIntelligence features such as ChatGPT integration with Siri, ImagePlayground, custom Genmoji, VisualIntelligence, enhanced writing tools, and expanded language support. These new features are designed to enhance the user experience and compete with other popular AI tools.

These changes by Apple in the EU region suggest that the company may be trying to balance its commitment to EU regulators while maintaining control of its ecosystem. The changes could have significant implications for third-party browser developers, as they can now use their preferred engines to build more personalized web apps that improve user experience. However, the impact of these changes on app developers and end users remains to be seen, as how they will affect app performance, compatibility, and user experience is yet to be determined.

It's important to note that the changes implemented by Apple in the EU region might not be replicated in other regions. Nonetheless, these changes offer a glimpse into how Apple is exploring different software development approaches for users globally to meet evolving market demands and regulatory requirements.