Apple Forced to Make Changes to iOS in Response to Digital Markets Act
Apple is being compelled to make significant changes to its iOS operating system in Europe in order to comply with the requirements of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) of the European Union. The DMA seeks to regulate large technology companies and establish rules regarding compatibility, fairness, and confidentiality. One key change for Apple will be a resolution allowing the use of alternative browsers on iOS, enabling competitors like Chrome and Firefox to introduce their own web rendering code starting with version 17.4.
However, despite the perceived improvement in conditions for browsers on iOS, both Google and Mozilla representatives have expressed dissatisfaction with the proposed changes by Apple. In particular, Mozilla representative Damiano demonstrated an earlier criticism regarding the decision to limit the use of the new browser engine, called Browserenginekit, only to apps within the EU. This limitation poses additional challenges for developers and creates barriers to competition with Safari.
Apple introduced the Browserenginekit framework as part of the iOS 17.4 beta version and requires browser developers to obtain approval for using the framework in their applications. The company has imposed several requirements for developers, including support for web standards, prompt vulnerability fixes, and user privacy protection. However, the drawback is that the use of Browserenginekit is limited to EU countries.
Google Vice President Paris Tabriz supported Mozilla’s criticism, stating that Apple’s strategy is excessively restrictive and does not offer real options for browser developers. Currently, alternative browsers on iOS, like Chrome and Firefox, essentially function as shells for the Safari engine, limiting users from experiencing the advantages of different engines and stifling competition.
The dissatisfaction with Safari being the only engine for all browsers on iOS has caused frustration among web developers and users. Safari often falls behind competitors in terms of supporting modern web technologies. However, the upcoming changes, even if confined to the EU territory, could help improve the overall browser situation on iOS by increasing competition and enhancing web viewing quality for users.
To comply with DMA regulations and continue operating in the EU, Apple has also made changes to its App Store policies. These changes now allow users to bypass the App Store and install third-party applications.
Mozilla has not only criticized Apple; they recently accused Microsoft of imposing its EDGE browser on Windows using design elements known as “dark patterns” that manipulate and deceive users. Mozilla believes that users should have the freedom to download, install, and use any alternative browser without any coercion or deceptive tactics.