Apple today released the first beta of iOS 17.4, which brings changes, allowing developers to distribute their apps through alternative app stores and offer alternative payment forms. Sadly for most users, the changes are limited to countries in the European Union.
The changes will be in 27 EU countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.
the ability to install apps via outside app stores will only be available in the countries listed above, users elsewhere in the world will not see any change in the way apps are installed and distributed.
Apple says these changes are limited to the EU (where it will soon be required to make these changes)due to the company’s concerns over how alternative app stores and payment methods will impact iOS users’ privacy and security. The Cupertino company says users will be at risk of being exposed to malware, questionable app content, pirated software, scams, and fraud.
Apple is required to make changes to the iOS ecosystem in the EU, due to the Digital Markets Act, which Apple has until March 6, 2024 to make the changes. If the company did not take action it would have faced significant fines by the European Commission.
Apple plans to release iOS 17.4 to the public in March.