Con iOS 17.4 su iPhone CAMBIA TUTTO!

Summary

The EU's Digital Markets Act has designated Apple as a 'gatekeeper' for imposing restrictions on iOS developers and users, such as only allowing App Store app installation and Apple Pay for payments. To continue iPhone sales in Europe, Apple must eliminate these restrictions by March 2024. Rather than enable open 'sideloading', Apple created extensive new APIs and frameworks for alternative app stores and payment systems while trying to maintain security. Users will receive security guidance, apps will require detailed disclosures, and malware protections will improve. Game streaming services will finally be allowed. Though displeased, even Epic is unlikely to compel further openness.

Takeaways

• 😀 EU's Digital Markets Act identifies Apple as a 'gatekeeper', imposing restrictions on apps/payments
• 👉🏻 Major changes coming to iOS in March 2024 with v17.4 release
• 👨🏻‍💻 Over 600 new APIs allow alternative app stores and payment methods
• 📱 Sideloading not allowed, Apple aims to balance openness and security
• i️ New user education about risks of third-party apps/stores
• 🔒 Improved malware protections even after app installation
• 💳 Alternative payments allowed but lose Family Sharing benefits
• 💰 Apple gets commission on its payment system or per non-Apple download
• 🎮 Cloud gaming services like Xbox and PlayStation coming to iOS
• ❓ Impact on iPadOS unclear as iPads not labeled 'gatekeepers'

Q & A

What is the Digital Markets Act (DMA)?

The DMA is a European Union regulation that aims to limit the market power of large technology companies identified as gatekeepers. It sets rules these companies must follow regarding app stores, payment systems, etc.

Why has the EU identified Apple as a gatekeeper?

The EU has identified Apple as a gatekeeper due to its dominant position in the iPhone ecosystem and restrictions it imposes on developers and users around app distribution, payments, web rendering engines, etc.

What changes will Apple have to make by March 2024?

By March 2024, Apple will have to allow sideloading of apps, alternative app stores, alternate payment methods, and alternate web rendering engines to comply with the DMA.

How will Apple aim to maintain security with these changes?

Apple plans to use developer education, mandated app transparency features, strengthened malware protections, and user warnings to help maintain security.

Will Apple charge commissions for non-Apple payment methods?

Yes, Apple plans to charge commissions of 3% if using Apple payment systems or 10-17% if using alternate payment methods.

What gaming change is Apple making worldwide?

Apple will now allow cloud gaming services like Xbox Game Pass, GeForce Now and PlayStation Plus to release native iOS apps.

Will iPads also see these changes?

It's unclear. The DMA regulation only covers iPhones but Apple may choose to also open up iPads similarly.

Has Epic Games accepted Apple's changes?

No, Epic has already stated they are unsatisfied with Apple's planned changes around third-party app distribution and payments.

When will the changes take effect?

They will take effect in March 2024, with the release of iOS 17.4. A developer beta has been available since February 2023.

What are some of the main concerns around these changes?

Potential security issues from less controlled app distribution, increased malware risks, and poorer user experiences dealing with external payments.