Apple has historically been very restrictive about allowing third-party app stores on its iOS devices. However, in the past, Apple has made some exceptions to this policy for specific apps or circumstances. Nevertheless, the company does this only when its hands are tied. At the moment, the iOS system is at iOS 16 with the next-gen iOS 17 expected to hit the public at WWDC 23. Frankly speaking, even if iOS has evolved to the current version, there are still some functional regrets, such as not supporting third-party application stores. Although from Apple’s point of view, this is for security and to avoid malware to the greatest extent. Despite all these, it is an indisputable fact that Apple is depriving users of their right to choose.
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EU to strongarm Apple once again
However, it appears that things are about to change with the new iOS system. Popular Apple analyst, Mark Gurman recently reveals that Apple will allow third – party stores. In addition, the company will run the installation package directly like Android. This is the first time that Apple will permit external installations to such an extent. If you know Apple very well, then you will know that Apple can not allow such on its own will. Actually, it’s not. The company is only responding to EU regulations which could ban the company if it fails to comply.
This approach is similar to the USB Type-C interface which Apple will also have to adopt under pressure from the EU. According to the new EU Digital Market Act, third-party app stores have to exist on iPhones and iPads. This is to ensure fair competition and not some form of monopoly as Apple loves it. The EU Digital Market Act will be implemented in March 2024. Of course, according to Apple’s approach, some threshold conditions should be set, and the details are expected to be announced to developers at WWDC.
