A new report by Bloomberg indicates that Apple will soon let users install apps from alternate app stores on iOS. This represents a major change for Apple as it only lets its users download apps specifically from the App Store. These plans have been brought into action thanks to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). It enacts “rules for digital gatekeepers to ensure open markets” by 2024, according to this press release.
Apple may still go ahead with “mandating certain security requirements,”, which will enable it to verify apps and charge fees. The company has not taken a call on whether developers can install third-party payment apps on the iPhone, however, based on the DMA, it is supposed to do that. Another condition set forth by the DMA is making iMessage compatible with other services, which Apple is yet to figure out how to do. It may also include location accessories like Tile in its Find My network.
Apple is also working on new changes due to EU regulations. It will be adopting the USC Type C ports into its design as it just can’t find a loophole in the regulation mandating the same.