In response to the upcoming EU Digital Market Act effective March 2024, Apple is implementing significant changes to iOS, addressing long-standing user demands. Last year, Apple responded to the EU by introducing a USB Type C port on the iPhone 15 series, a change eagerly awaited by iPhone users.
As reported by Bloomberg, another ground-breaking transformation is underway for iOS 17.4, focusing on the Safari browser and the App Store for European Union countries. A notable feature in this update is the introduction of sideloading, enabling users to download apps from third-party sources beyond Apple’s App Store. This marks the first instance of sideloading for iPhones, with the initial beta version already accessible to beta testers.
The latest beta version of iOS 17.4 also brought additional changes. Users now have the option to select alternate payment methods, addressing longstanding concerns from lawmakers and developers. Additionally, changing the default browser on iOS is now more straightforward, a welcome change from the complex steps previously required.
Apple is extending its modifications to NFC payments on iPhones. While Apple Pay was the primary option for NFC payments, iOS now permits developers to create tap-to-pay apps using the NFC chip. This expansion covers both browsers with third-party engines and comprehensive game streaming services.
In a bid to foster a more developer-friendly environment, Apple is reducing the App Store Tax from 30% to 17%. Developers will now incur a 17% fee on app sales, which will further decrease to 10% for most developers and subscribers after one year. It is crucial to note that these adjustments are exclusive to European countries within the EU. Outside these regions, Apple will maintain a 30% fee for developers.
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