iPhone Users in the EU to Gain Sideloading Option in First Half of 2024, Evoking Potential App Store Changes
iPhone Users in the EU to Gain Sideloading Option in First Half of 2024, Evoking Potential App Store Changes
In a groundbreaking shift, iPhone users in the European Union (EU) are set to experience sideloading capabilities in the first half of 2024, allowing them to download apps from sources outside Apple's official App Store. This development, reported by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, aligns with EU regulations and aims to provide users with an alternative to Apple's App Store, freeing developers from the 15 to 30 percent fees imposed by the tech giant.
Gurman outlines that Apple plans to implement a "highly controlled system" ensuring a secure process for EU users to install apps from external sources. This strategic move is anticipated to coincide with adjustments to Messages and payment apps, potentially introduced through a localized iOS 17 update.
Contrary to previous speculations, Gurman's update disputes claims that sideloading might debut with Apple's iOS 17.2 software update, emphasizing the need for precise information interpretation. Recent confusion stemmed from misinterpreting new code related to an upcoming framework for organizations to distribute apps to employees.
The regulatory catalyst behind this shift is the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA), effective since November 1, 2022. The DMA mandates "gatekeeper" companies, including Apple, to open up their services and platforms to other companies and developers. This legislation is poised to impact various aspects of Apple's ecosystem, potentially prompting significant modifications to the App Store, Messages, FaceTime, Siri, and more.
Apple has staunchly opposed sideloading, asserting that it jeopardizes the privacy and security safeguards integral to iPhone users. The company contends that sideloading may expose users to malware, scams, data tracking, and other security risks. However, compliance with the DMA is mandatory for Apple to avoid potential fines amounting to 20 percent of its global revenue if EU regulations are violated.
Gurman's December 2022 report suggested that Apple could implement security measures, such as verification, potentially accompanied by a fee. This verification system, akin to the one on Mac, ensures user safety while permitting access to apps outside the Mac App Store.
Looking ahead, if other countries enact similar legislation, the paradigm shift introduced in the EU may extend globally. The United States, for instance, is contemplating legislation requiring Apple to permit sideloading, hinting at potential transformative changes in the broader app distribution landscape.
