Apple to Expand Default App Options and Allow More Deletable Apps on iPhones and iPads in the EU

Apple is making significant adjustments to its iOS and iPadOS operating systems to align with the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA). These changes will impact the way users in the EU interact with their iPhones and iPads, offering more flexibility and customization options.

As part of its ongoing dialogue with the European Commission, Apple is set to introduce several new features that will be rolled out later this year and into 2025.

Expanding Default App Options

In a move to comply with the DMA, Apple will soon allow EU users to set non-Apple apps as defaults for a wider range of functions on their devices. Currently, users can change their default browser, mail app, app marketplace, and contactless payment apps. With the upcoming update, iPhones and iPads in the EU will also permit users to set different default apps for phone calls, messaging, password management, keyboards, and call spam filters.

These changes will be introduced under a new "Default Apps" section in the Settings app, which will be prominently displayed at the top of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18's updated Apps settings. This feature is expected to be available "in an update later this year," with further enhancements coming in spring 2025, including support for setting defaults for navigation apps and translation services.

More Built-In Apps Become Deletable

In another significant shift, Apple will allow EU users to delete more of its built-in apps. Historically, users could not remove certain core apps like the App Store, Messages, Camera, Photos, and Safari.
However, with the upcoming updates, these apps will become deletable, leaving only the Settings and Phone apps as non-removable. This change reflects Apple's efforts to provide users with more control over their device's app ecosystem, in line with the DMA's requirements.

Updated Browser Choice Screen

Apple is also updating the browser choice screen for EU users, a feature designed to comply with the DMA's requirements. The new choice screen will be shown to all users who have Safari set as their default browser, even if they have previously seen a choice screen.

This updated screen will offer additional information about third-party browsers and provide developers with more data on how their browsers are performing in the choice screen context.

When a user selects a different browser as their default, the Safari icon on their Dock or Home Screen will be replaced with the chosen browser's icon. If the selected browser is already installed on the device, it will open immediately; if not, it will start downloading automatically. This change is intended to enhance user experience by making it easier to switch to a preferred browser.

What's Next?

These changes are part of Apple's ongoing efforts to comply with the EU's stringent digital regulations. As the company continues its dialogue with the European Commission, further updates and adjustments may be expected.

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