Apple announces significant changes to Browser Choice Screen for EU Users

Apple today announced a series of significant changes to its iOS and iPadOS operating systems for users in the European Union (EU), addressing key aspects of user choice and app functionality. These updates, slated for implementation by the end of the year, aim to enhance user control over default browser selection, expand options for default apps, and provide greater flexibility in system app management. The changes come as a result of Apple's ongoing dialogue with the European Commission regarding compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA).

According to Apple's official announcement, the most notable change pertains to the browser choice screen, which was initially introduced with iOS 17.4 to meet DMA requirements. The updated version of this feature will now be displayed to all EU users who currently have Safari set as their default browser, regardless of whether they have previously encountered the choice screen. This move significantly expands the reach of the browser selection process, potentially affecting millions of iOS users across the 27 EU member states.

The revamped browser choice screen will include several key enhancements designed to provide users with more comprehensive information about their options. Browser descriptions on the choice screen will now incorporate the app subtitle from each browser's App Store product page, offering users additional context about each option's features and capabilities. Furthermore, users will have the ability to review each browser's full App Store product page by tapping on a chevron to the right of the browser's listing, allowing for a more informed decision-making process.

In a departure from the previous design, users will now be required to scroll through the entire list of browser options before setting a default browser. This change ensures that users are exposed to all available choices before making their selection. Once a browser is chosen, the process of setting it as the default has been streamlined. If the selected browser is already installed on the device, it will automatically open once chosen. For browsers not yet downloaded, the choice screen will display the download progress before automatically launching the newly installed browser.

Apple has also introduced a feature that addresses the prominent placement of Safari on users' devices. If Safari is currently located in the user's Dock or on the first page of the Home Screen, and the user selects a different browser that is not currently installed, the newly chosen browser will replace Safari's icon in that location. This change ensures that the user's preferred browser maintains a prominent and easily accessible position on their device.

The list of browsers eligible for inclusion in the choice screen remains subject to specific criteria. To be considered, a browser app must have the Default Browser Entitlement, have been downloaded by at least 5,000 users across all EU App Store storefronts on iPhone in the prior calendar year, and be available on the App Store on iPhone in the EU. Additionally, the app must meet EU legal requirements for inclusion in the choice screen. Apple will continue to update the list of eligible browsers annually, with up to 11 of the most downloaded browsers in each country being selected for the choice screen, in addition to Safari.

In recognition of the importance of data for browser developers, Apple will provide access to a new set of analytics regarding their browser's performance on the choice screen. This data will include metrics such as selection rates and information about default selection, accessible via an API in App Store Connect. Developers interested in these insights are encouraged to contact their Apple representative or reach out to dma-data@apple.com for more details.

Beyond the browser choice screen, Apple's announcement outlined additional changes coming to iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 for EU users. A new Default Apps section will be introduced in the Settings app, listing all default options available to each user. In future software updates, users can expect new default settings for a range of system functions, including dialing phone numbers, sending messages, translating text, navigation, password management, keyboards, and call spam filters. This expansion of default app options gives users greater control over their device's core functionalities and the ability to customize their experience according to their preferences.

In a move that further aligns with the DMA's emphasis on user choice, Apple will now allow EU users to delete several system apps that were previously permanent fixtures on iOS devices. The list of newly deletable apps includes the App Store, Messages, Photos, Camera, and Safari. This change provides users with unprecedented control over the apps present on their devices, potentially freeing up storage space and allowing for a more personalized iOS experience.

The timing of these changes is significant, coming approximately nine months after the initial implementation of the browser choice screen in iOS 17.4. This update demonstrates Apple's commitment to iterating on its DMA compliance measures and responding to feedback from both users and regulatory bodies. The company's willingness to make substantial changes to core aspects of its operating system underscores the impact of the DMA on the digital landscape in the EU.

As these updates roll out, they are likely to have far-reaching implications for both users and developers in the EU. Browser developers, in particular, may see shifts in market share as users are presented with a more comprehensive and accessible choice of default browsers. The expansion of default app options could also lead to increased competition among app developers vying for these coveted positions.

Key facts from Apple's announcement

• Changes to be implemented by the end of 2024 for iOS and iPadOS users in the EU
• Updated browser choice screen to be shown to all EU users with Safari as default browser
• Browser descriptions on choice screen will include app subtitles from App Store listings
• Users must scroll through all browser options before setting a default
• Chosen browsers will automatically open or begin downloading upon selection
• New browsers may replace Safari's icon in the Dock or Home Screen
• Developers will have access to new analytics about their browser's performance on the choice screen
• iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 will include a new Default Apps section in Settings
• Future updates will allow setting defaults for various system functions
• App Store, Messages, Photos, Camera, and Safari apps will become deletable for EU users
• Changes result from ongoing dialogue with the European Commission regarding DMA compliance