Apple Confirms New iPhone Update's Controversial Surprise for EU Users
Apple's latest iPhone software update, iOS 17.4, introduces changes for EU users. EU iPhone owners can now access alternative app marketplaces in addition to the Apple App Store. Users can continue using apps downloaded from alternative marketplaces even when outside the EU for a 30-day period.
Apple has recently released its latest iPhone software, iOS 17.4, which brings a host of new features and updates. However, a surprising detail has emerged for European Union (EU) users who wish to use their iPhones while traveling abroad. Apple has confirmed that the iPhone software is now divided into two parts: one for EU users and another for everyone else. This division is a result of the newly implemented Digital Markets Act, which has compelled Apple to make certain changes to its software.
One of the key changes is that EU iPhone owners can now access alternative marketplaces for apps, in addition to the Apple App Store. This means that users can download apps that are not available through the official store. While the implications of this change are yet to be fully understood, there are already companies preparing to provide these alternative apps to EU users with an Apple ID set to one of the EU countries or regions.
However, a question arises for EU users who travel outside the European Union. Apple initially provided limited information, stating that apps from these alternative marketplaces would continue to work during short-term travel but did not specify the duration of this grace period. Fortunately, Apple has now updated its support document with clearer language. The grace period, now referred to as the "30-day period," allows users to continue opening and using apps previously installed from alternative app marketplaces even when outside the EU. During this time, alternative app marketplaces can also update these apps. However, it is important to note that users must be physically located within the European Union to install new apps from alternative marketplaces.
While a 30-day period may be sufficient for most users, it may pose a challenge for those who embark on extended trips outside the EU, such as the popular month-long summer vacations in some European nations. It remains to be seen how this new policy will impact EU users and whether other governments will consider implementing similar legislation for their citizens.
Apple's latest iPhone software update, iOS 17.4, introduces changes for EU users.
EU iPhone owners can now access alternative app marketplaces in addition to the Apple App Store.
Users can continue using apps downloaded from alternative marketplaces even when outside the EU for a 30-day period.
Source: FORBES