Apple recently announced that it will be making some significant changes in the European Union. One of the big changes coming to the EU is that iPhone users will soon be able to sideload apps from third-party app stores. This is a major shift from the late Steve Jobs’ initial decision to prevent iPhone users from sideloading apps due to security concerns. The move will allow users to install apps from third-party app stores without Apple vetting them for malware and other threats, as is the case with apps downloaded from the App Store.

Apple will also be reducing the commission it takes for in-app payment processing in the EU. The commission will drop to a range of 10%-17%, down from the 15%-30% range seen in the rest of the world. Additionally, developers will have the option to choose alternative payment platforms to handle in-app transactions across all of Apple’s operating systems in the EU.

Another change on the horizon is the introduction of a new “choice screen” for Safari in iOS 17.4 and later. This new screen will appear the first time EU users open Safari and will allow them to choose a default browser, presenting a list of third-party options to make the change immediately.
Apple is also implementing additional malware protections for iOS apps in the EU, as well as giving users the ability to pick a third-party default contactless payment app and select an alternative app marketplace as their default to replace the App Store.

All of these changes will take place in March, and Apple assures that it is working to comply with the Digital Markets Act’s requirements in the European Union while prioritizing user privacy and security. Developers will have the option to remain on the same business terms in place today if they prefer.