With the future iOS 17.4, Apple will perhaps remove a very useful function in Europe. The update should indeed make it impossible to use the Progressive Web App (PWA).
As you may know, the year 2024 will be marked by the application of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), the new legislation on digital markets. This will come into force on March 6, 2024 in all countries of the European Union. Apple has already made many changes, particularly regarding its App Store, and the changes should continue with iOS 17.4.
What exactly is a “web app”?
To put it simply, a progressive web app is an application that consists of pages (or websites) that can take the form of a native application in the eyes of the user. For example, it is possible to create a shortcut to a website on the screen of an iPhone, and benefit from various functionalities (notifications, offline access, etc.).
While testing the latest beta version of the new iOS 17.4, some users may have noticed the disappearance of this function. If we initially believed it to be a simple bug, it seems that this is indeed part of the “ DMA plan » implemented by Apple with regard to Europe.
Your iOS, with or without web app?
By complying with future European legislation, Apple could eliminate web apps. In this way, sites could lose some very useful features.
Worse still, some services could become completely unusable as such, with iOS opening a pop-up window saying “ [nom de la web app] will open in your default browser from now on “.
Remember that native support for PWAs dates back to iOS 15.4. Some developers have also chosen to favor Progressive Web Apps rather than a native application.
It remains to be seen whether iOS 17.4 will indeed mark the end of web apps. Verdict (very) soon.
Source : 9to5Mac
10