Apple Ditches Web Apps in EU, Citing Security Woes Under New Rules

February 17, 2024 By Raulf Hernes

(Image Credit Google)

Major shakeup for iPhone and iPad users in Europe: In order to comply with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) and address security issues, Apple is eliminating the option to install online apps straight from your home screen. What's changing? You will no longer be able to add web apps to your home screen, such as Spotify Lite or Twitter Lite, as of iOS 17.4. Alternatively, bookmarks will let you access them in your favourite browser. Also Read: Google’s New Search Feature Takes on Customer Service Wait Times Why the change? According to the DMA, Apple must allow outside browsers to use its platform. Apple claims that since these browsers wouldn't be subject to the same stringent security restrictions as native apps, permitting them to generate homescreen web apps would pose security issues. Apple's concerns: Apple is concerned about "malicious web apps" that can access your camera, microphone, or location without your permission or steal data from other apps. Additionally, they worry that browsers might install programs covertly. What about sideloading? Apple is still permitting software downloads from outside the software Store in Europe, even with this modification. This is yet another DMA need. Browser choice gets a boost: Now, when EU users use Safari for the first time, they will be asked to select their default browser. This is an additional DMA prerequisite. Security first: Apple emphasizes its dedication to customer security and details the many precautions they are taking to guarantee secure browsing, especially while using third-party browsers. Impact on users: The fact that you won't have separate web apps doesn't mean that using bookmarks to reach them will negatively affect functioning. The ease of having them right on their home screen, though, may be missed by some users. Overall: Due to new laws and Apple's security concerns, this is a big change for iPhone and iPad owners in the EU. Although there may be some difficulty, sideloading and browser choice present new opportunities.

By Raulf Hernes

If you ask me raulf means ALL ABOUT TECH!!

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