Apple allows EU users to delete pre-installed apps on iOS 18

As part of its ongoing efforts to comply with the Digital Markets Act, Apple has unveiled major changes to iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 in the European Union. European users will have more control over default apps, browser selection, and can even remove long-standing pre-installed apps like Safari.

The “browser selection screen” was introduced when the DMA took effect in March and appears when opening Safari for the first time after updating an iPhone to iOS 17.4. It allows EU users to choose a default internet browser to open links, whereas previously the default browser would automatically select Safari.

The browser selection screen coming with iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 will see a number of changes, including the incorporation of browser descriptions.

Apple will expand the number of device functions that users can choose alternate default apps to perform, including phone calls, messaging and password management. It will also increase the number of pre-installed apps that can be removed from the device.

According to Apple, most of the changes will be implemented “by the end of the year.” Official Update.

“These updates arise from our ongoing dialogue with the European Commission on compliance with the Digital Markets Act requirements in these areas,” the Cupertino company said.

An EU Commission spokesperson told TechRepublic that the commission “notes Apple’s statement” and “will monitor the effectiveness of the solution in achieving the DMA’s objectives once it is implemented.”

Changes to the browser selection screen

The new browser selection interface will give users a clearer picture of Safari alternatives. EU users will now see 12 browser options, including Chrome and Firefox, with descriptions taken directly from each browser’s App Store page.

In addition to displaying browser options first, Apple will ask users to scroll through the entire list of alternatives before selecting a new default browser. If the selected browser is not installed on the device, it will automatically start downloading before opening and replacing the Safari icon on the home screen.

All EU Apple device users with Safari installed will see the browser selection screen after downloading iOS 18 or iPadOS 18, unless they have already set a browser other than Safari as their default. If they migrate to a new device, and Safari was the default browser on their old device, they will see the screen again.

Browser developers listed on the selection screen will have access to performance data for their browsers, including selection rates.

Expand default app options

Apple is expanding its default app options beyond just the browser, email app marketplace, and contactless payment clients. Later this year, EU users will be able to set third-party defaults for other features like phone calls, text messages, keyboards, password management, and spam call filters.

There will be a new default apps section in the Settings app where users can manage all their default apps. In spring 2025, EU users will also be able to choose default apps for navigation and translation.

look: Apple Intelligence EU: Mac may be released under DMA rules

Option to remove core apps

Apple will allow users to delete core apps for the first time, including the App Store, Messages, Photos, Camera and Safari. This will give EU users more control over the apps they use most and level the playing field for third-party app providers.

Apple and DMA

apple Responded to DMA’s request in JanuaryIt said accessing third-party apps on Apple devices presents security risks, including “malware, fraud and scams, illegal and harmful content.”

However, it does Number of changesincluding lowering the maximum commission that can be charged for subscriptions and in-app purchases for apps listed on the App Store, and eliminating commissions for apps distributed by third-party apps.

Despite these changes, EU DMA compliance deadline passed in Marchthe EU announced Investigation into Apple’s alleged gatekeeping In its apps and browsers, Apple does not comply with any laws, such as promoting its own services over those of its competitors. On June 24, Apple became the first tech giant to be formally charged with DMA Violation.

The company violated the law in three main ways:

1. None of its three sets of business rules for app developers allow them the freedom to direct customers to purchase options outside of the app.
2. Directing users to purchase options outside of an iOS app can only be accomplished through “linking,” which is an in-app link that directs users to a web page to complete the transaction, but this is strictly limited.
3. The fees Apple charges for bringing developers new customers by hosting their apps on the App Store go beyond what is strictly required for compensation.

At the same time, the Commission has also launched a new investigation into Apple’s commercial terms for developers seeking to host iOS apps on third-party platforms to determine whether those terms are so restrictive that they discourage developers from doing so. Specifically, the Commission is investigating:

1. The new core technology fee stipulates that third-party app stores and third-party app developers will pay €0.50 for every million first-time app installations.
2. Users must take multiple steps to download alternative app stores or applications on Apple devices, and information screens are displayed as part of the process.
3. The developer eligibility requirements are related to the ability to offer an alternative app store or distribute apps directly from the web on the iPhone.

Before a decision is made, Apple still has a chance to respond or take action to alleviate concerns, which is likely why the tech giant issued its latest set of changes. However, if the preliminary findings are confirmed, a non-compliance decision will be made by March 25, 2025.

A European Commission spokesperson told TechRepublic that the next steps in the public investigation will be based on the effectiveness of the new solution in achieving the DMA’s objectives.