The effects of the DMA are still shaking up Apple, forcing it to let go. The American company announces the upcoming possibility of downloading applications directly from websites.
The Digital Markets Act (DMA) continues to have significant effects on Apple. Latest upheaval to date: the distribution of applications within the European Union will be relaxed, to “ provide more flexibility to developers », addressing the public of the Old Continent. This was announced by the American company on March 12.
Install iOS apps from websites
More concretely, applications available in the EU will have access to new distribution options. Clearly, they can be offered on the developer’s site, without having to go through the App Store. The official store controlled by Apple will become optional.
This approach, called Web Distribution, will be available this spring 2024, via a software update, indicates the Cupertino company. “ Apple will provide authorized developers with access to APIs that make it easier to distribute their apps from the web » and all the necessary technical equipment necessary for their proper functioning.
Already with the arrival of iOS 17.4, Apple had resolved to authorize on the one hand alternative conditions in its App Store, and on the other hand to accept the emergence of competing stores for downloading applications. Web Distribution appears as a third axis to free itself from the App Store.
The entry into force, on March 7, 2024, of European regulations on digital markets has forced Apple like never before to loosen its grip on its ecosystem. In reality, the repercussions of the DMA go beyond the App Store: Apple Pay, Safari browser, cloud gaming… there are many sectors affected.
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