Apple has announced updates to how European Union users will manage browser options and default apps, following pressure from regulators under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The iPhone maker revealed changes on Thursday, marking a new phase in its compliance with the sweeping regulations that took effect on March 7.
The notable update includes a new “choice screen” for selecting default web browsers. When users open Safari for the first time, they will now be presented with a randomly ordered list of 12 browsers specific to their country, each with a brief description. Once a browser is selected, it will be automatically downloaded and set as the default. This feature will also extend to iPads later this year.
This update comes after criticism from browser companies regarding Apple’s initial response to the DMA. The European Commission began an investigation on March 25, suspecting that Apple’s previous measures did not fully comply with the new regulations. Apple has since been in dialogue with the Commission and believes the new changes will address these concerns.
Andrew Frost Moroz, founder of Aloha browser, welcomed the changes, particularly ahead of the upcoming iPhone launches. “The description will highlight these benefits, and fewer taps to start browsing will enhance the user experience and benefit third-party browsers,” he told Reuters.
In addition to the choice screen, Apple plans to introduce a dedicated section for managing default apps, including those for messaging, phone calls, spam filters, password managers, and keyboards. Users will also be able to delete certain pre-installed Apple apps such as App Store, Messages, Camera, Photos, and Safari, with only the Settings and Phone apps remaining undeletable.
The European Commission has stated that it will monitor the effectiveness of these updates in achieving the objectives of the DMA and will determine the next steps in the ongoing case.
