With the rollout of iOS 17.4, Apple introduces a series of changes tailored for the European Union’s App Store and iPhone users, including provisions for third-party app marketplaces and alternative browser engines. However, one consequence of these adjustments is the removal of support for Home Screen web apps within the EU.
Addressing concerns surrounding this decision, Apple confirms that the exclusion of Home Screen web apps in iOS 17.4 is not a glitch but a deliberate action driven by requirements outlined in the Digital Markets Act.
The Alteration in iOS 17.4
Observant iPhone users in the EU noted a shift last week as they found themselves unable to install and utilize web apps on their device’s Home Screen in iOS 17.4. Over the years, Apple has introduced various enhancements to support progressive web apps (PWAs) on iPhones, such as enabling push notifications with icon badges in iOS 16.4.
A notable change in iOS 17.4 is the provision of support for alternative browser engines on iPhones in the EU, a development mandated by the Digital Markets Act. This departure from Apple’s conventional reliance on the WebKit engine is necessitated to foster browser diversity. Consequently, the removal of Home Screen web apps support in the EU is attributed to this regulatory requirement.
Apple’s Explanation
To address the intricate security and privacy concerns associated with web apps utilizing alternative browser engines, Apple asserts that constructing an entirely new integration architecture within iOS is imperative. However, given the extensive demands of the Digital Markets Act and the limited adoption of Home Screen web apps, embarking on such an endeavor is deemed impractical.
In compliance with the DMA, Apple affirms the necessity to eliminate the Home Screen web apps feature in the EU. Nonetheless, users can continue accessing websites directly from their Home Screen through bookmarks with minimal disruption to functionality.
Implications and Next Steps
Apple’s adherence to the DMA’s stipulations impacts both third-party browsers and Safari. The requirement for browser equality precludes the preferential treatment of Safari and WebKit, resulting in the removal of Home Screen web apps support across all browsers.
While this change may affect a small subset of users, Apple acknowledges any inconvenience incurred and assures users of minimal disruption to their browsing experience. The company underscores its commitment to regulatory compliance and the continued enhancement of user privacy and security.
iOS 17.4, currently available to developers and public beta testers, is slated for an early March release to the general public.
