It will soon be possible to install applications outside the App Store, however Apple will lock this possibility only to European users and will use geolocation for this.
DMA is now a reality in Europe. After several years of waiting, the Digital Markets Act officially comes into force in the countries of the European Union. This new regulatory arsenal aims to better protect users of platforms and other digital giants, and thus give them more choice in the use made by service providers of their personal data. Apple has therefore followed suit and is offering new rules of use with iOS 17.4 which offer more freedoms to European consumers.
Alternative stores highly controlled by Apple
This very important new version of the iPhone and iPad operating system notably allows users to download mobile applications via other online stores to download to their smartphone or tablet. A small revolution for the Apple ecosystem, where the App Store was until today the only authorized application store.
Apple has reluctantly agreed to open its ecosystem, but will still impose limitations to prevent other users from taking advantage of alternative stores that could flourish in the coming months.
To ensure that only European users have access to these stores, the Apple brand will use the location of iPhones to detect a change of country.
Facilities impossible if you go on vacation outside Europe
In a recently published support sheet, Apple first explains that the Apple ID, or the user account registered on the device, must be configured as belonging to one of the countries of the European Union.
Apple will also use the location of the iPhone or iPad to ensure that members are residents of the EU. The company also indicates that the verification is carried out on the device, and that the position of users will not be shared on its servers, in accordance with its rules regarding respect for private life.
Last rule, and not least: Apple will deactivate the possibilities of downloading applications if you leave the European area. The company grants a grace period, particularly for short stays, without specifying the number of days before activating the block. Updates will no longer be possible either, nor will downloading from other stores except from the Apple App Store. Once back in Europe, the blocks will be automatically removed after a location check.
For the moment, no alternative store has launched, but several publishers have already announced their intention to open their own store.
Source : 9to5Mac
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