In a groundbreaking move that could reshape the app ecosystem,
Apple
has released
iOS 17.4
, paving the way for third-party
app stores
, alternative browser engines, and non-Apple payment options on iPhones – but only for users within the European Union. This update is Apple's response to the
EU
's
Digital Markets Act
(DMA), a law aimed at promoting competition and curbing the dominance of tech giants.
Why it can be called a ‘historic App Store disruption’For the first time since the iPhone's inception, Apple iOS users in the EU can now download apps from sources other than Apple's tightly controlled App Store. While the approval process for third-party app stores may take time, Mobivention's enterprise-focused marketplace is set to debut on March 7, closely followed by the Epic Game Store and MacPaw's Setapp store later this year.
Browser wars reignited
In addition to app store alternatives, iOS 17.4 introduces a choice screen in Safari, allowing EU users to select a default browser powered by engines like Google's Chromium or Mozilla's Gecko – a stark contrast to Apple's WebKit-based restrictions.
"We've been waiting for this moment," said a Mozilla spokesperson. "With our full-fledged Firefox browser on iOS, users can experience true browser competition, complete with enhanced privacy and performance features."
NFC payments open to third parties
Apple's iron grip on mobile payments is also loosening, as the update enables third-party developers to utilise the iPhone's NFC chip for contactless payment services within the European Economic Area (EEA). While no alternative providers have been announced yet, users will soon find a list of apps requesting NFC access under Settings.
Emoji, Podcast transcripts, and better security for all
Beyond the EU-specific changes, iOS 17.4 brings several enhancements to users worldwide. The update embraces the Unicode 15.1 standard, introducing over 100 new emoji, including a whimsical mushroom and expressive head-shaking characters.
Apple's Podcasts app now offers automatic transcriptions in English, Spanish, French, and German, allowing users to search and navigate audio content with ease. Additionally, a new cryptographic protocol called PQ3 bolsters iMessage encryption against potential quantum computing attacks. The update allows users to mandate security delays while setting up Stolen Device Protection, so thieves could not quickly disable the tracking or wipe the phone.
The "Battery" menu in the Settings app is being made more straightforward, allowing users to check if their iPhone's battery health is "normal."
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