Apple recently announced that iPhone and iPad users in the European Union will soon have the ability to choose default apps for phone calls, messaging, keyboards, password managers, and more. This update is set to roll out later this year, with a new “Default Apps” section being added to the Settings. In addition to these changes, Apple will also introduce the option to set default navigation, translation apps, and call spam filter apps in the spring of next year.
Deleting Unwanted Apple Apps
One of the most exciting developments is the ability for iPhone users in the EU to delete certain Apple apps that were previously undeletable. Users will now have the option to remove the App Store, Messages, Camera, Photos, and Safari apps from their devices. However, Apple will still require users to keep the Settings and Phone apps, limiting complete customization.
Apple is also making some small changes to the browser choice screen that appears when users first open Safari on their iPhone. This screen will now allow users to install alternate browsers such as Firefox, Chrome, and DuckDuckGo. After the update, EU users with Safari set as their default browser will need to scroll through a list of options before making a selection. Additionally, the choice screen will display the browser’s App Store caption, providing more information to users.
Developers of the browsers listed on the choice screen will also benefit from Apple’s update. They will receive access to more data about the performance of the choice screen, allowing them to better understand user behavior and preferences. This increased transparency and feedback could lead to improvements in the user experience for browser applications on Apple devices.
Overall, Apple’s decision to expand default app options for users in the European Union is a positive step towards greater customization and user control. By allowing users to choose their preferred apps and delete unwanted ones, Apple is empowering consumers to tailor their devices to their individual needs and preferences. Additionally, the updates to the browser choice screen and increased developer insights demonstrate Apple’s commitment to fostering competition and innovation within its ecosystem. It will be interesting to see how these changes impact the user experience and app development landscape in the coming months.