Apple Confirms Major Changes Coming to iPads in Response to EU Digital Markets Act
Apple has confirmed that the changes introduced for iPhones in response to the EU Digital Markets Act will also be implemented for iPads. The changes include the allowance of alternative app marketplaces, the freedom to choose a different browser, and the ability to select a preferred default search engine. Contactless payments will no longer be limited to Apple Wallet and Apple Pay, as developers will have access to NFC technology.
While these changes will initially impact users in the EU, other governments around the world are closely monitoring the situation to determine if similar legal changes should be implemented in their respective countries.
Apple made the announcement in a news update for developers on Thursday, May 2. The company stated that it will bring the recent iOS changes for apps in the EU to iPadOS later this fall, as required by the European Commission's designation of iPadOS as a gatekeeper platform under the Digital Markets Act. Developers will have the option to adopt the Alternative Business Terms for Apps in the EU, which will include additional capabilities and options on iPadOS, or they can choose to remain on Apple's existing terms.
The changes being referred to are extensive and aim to promote competition and consumer choice. One of the key changes is the allowance of alternative app marketplaces, which will enable users to download apps from sources other than the Apple App Store. Additionally, users will have the freedom to select a different browser for their iPads, and it does not have to be based on WebKit, as is the case with iPhones in the U.S., U.K., and other regions.
Another significant change is the ability for users to choose their preferred default search engine, a feature that has already transformed the digital landscape in the EU. Furthermore, contactless payments will no longer be limited to Apple Wallet and Apple Pay, as developers will have access to APIs that allow them to incorporate NFC technology into their banking and wallet apps throughout the European Economic Area.
While developers will still have the option to remain exclusive to the App Store, this move by Apple to embrace alternative marketplaces on iPads could potentially disrupt the app distribution landscape. It is expected that some developers will take advantage of the new opportunities presented by these changes, which could lead to increased competition and innovation in the app market.
Apple has confirmed that the changes introduced for iPhones in response to the EU Digital Markets Act will also be implemented for iPads.
The changes include the allowance of alternative app marketplaces, the freedom to choose a different browser, and the ability to select a preferred default search engine.
Contactless payments will no longer be limited to Apple Wallet and Apple Pay, as developers will have access to NFC technology.
Source: FORBES