Apple could be one of the best companies that keep users safe. However, the company faces some restrictions by European Union laws. According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, Apple is preparing to allow third-party app stores and sideloading on the iPhone due to a new EU law. While the brand could delay the new improvement until 2024, it is planning to release it in next year’s iOS 17 update. Here are the details about Apple third-party apps.
Apple could release third-party apps in iOS 17 in Europe
Especially during 2022, Apple has faced a lot of EU restrictions. For example, the EU recently made it mandatory for Apple to change the lighting port to USB-C. Now, a new European Union law called the Digital Markets Act will force Apple to change its downloading app ecosystem. However, the new Apple third-party apps and sideloading feature could be only available in European countries.
According to Gurman, Apple will allow users to install alternative app stores on iOS, sideloading as well. The new change will be remarkable for the company. Apple only allowed iPhone and iPad users to download apps from the App Store.
With the new change, users will have the ability to install software from the web. Apple’s developers have previously called this feature “a cybercriminal’s best friend.” According to the EU’s law announcement, gatekeeper companies have to comply with the act until March 6th, 2024.
Gurman says, “If similar laws are passed in additional countries, Apple’s project could lay the groundwork for other regions. But the company’s changes are designed initially to just go into effect in Europe. Changes would also come to NFC chip and camera access, Find My network for rivals to the AirTag, web browsing engines, and other areas of Apple’s software. The company still plans to charge developers for access to iOS, even with side loading.”
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