Apple’s recent decision to discontinue iPhone web apps in the European Union (EU) is now under scrutiny, with the possibility of an investigation looming. The EU’s regulatory body, the European Commission, has initiated the collection of information from Apple and app developers to aid in its assessment of the situation.
In response to inquiries regarding the matter, the European Commission stated, “We are indeed looking at the compliance packages of all gatekeepers, including Apple. In that context, we’re in particular looking into the issue of progressive web apps, and can confirm sending the requests for information to Apple and to app developers, who can provide useful information for our assessment.”
The decision by Apple to discontinue web apps in iOS 17.4 for the EU has raised concerns and warranted further investigation. Rather than functioning as standalone apps with storage and the capability to send push notifications, web apps in the EU will now function more like bookmarks. Apple attributes this change to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which stipulates that the company must fully support third-party browser engines, not just its own Safari’s WebKit. Apple argues that incorporating web app support for other browsers would necessitate an extensive restructuring that is not feasible given the other demands of the DMA. Additionally, Apple cites low user adoption and potential security risks as reasons for their decision.
Notably, app developers are resisting the discontinuation of web apps. Open Web Advocacy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to championing the open web, is conducting a survey to assess the impact on developers and plans to submit the collected responses to the European Commission.
While these developments are underway, Apple awaits the outcome of the potential investigation as the European Commission delves into the compliance of “gatekeepers,” including the tech giant. The findings of this investigation will likely shed light on the implications of Apple’s decision and shape future policies regarding web apps within the EU.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Apple’s Discontinuation of iPhone Web Apps in the EU
1. What is the reason behind Apple’s decision to discontinue iPhone web apps in the EU?
Apple discontinued iPhone web apps in the EU due to the requirements of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) imposed by the European Union. The DMA states that Apple must fully support third-party browser engines, which Apple argues would require extensive restructuring that is not feasible. Apple also mentions low user adoption and security risks as factors.
2. Why is the European Commission investigating Apple’s decision?
The European Commission, which is the EU’s regulatory body, has initiated an investigation to assess the compliance of “gatekeepers,” including Apple. The decision to discontinue web apps in the EU has raised concerns and warrants further examination.
3. What actions has the European Commission taken so far?
The European Commission has begun collecting information from Apple and app developers regarding the discontinuation of web apps. They have sent requests for information to gather useful data for their assessment.
4. How are app developers responding to the discontinuation of web apps?
App developers are resisting the discontinuation of web apps. Open Web Advocacy, a nonprofit organization focused on championing the open web, is conducting a survey to evaluate the impact on developers. They plan to submit the collected responses to the European Commission.
5. What can be expected from the investigation by the European Commission?
The investigation by the European Commission will provide insights into the implications of Apple’s decision and will likely influence future policies concerning web apps in the EU. The findings of the investigation will determine the outcome of the situation.
Key Terms:
– European Commission: The regulatory body of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, and upholding EU treaties.
– Digital Markets Act (DMA): A legislative proposal by the European Commission aimed at ensuring fair and open digital markets within the EU.
– Gatekeepers: Refers to dominant companies operating online platforms that have significant influence and control over other market players.
Suggested Related Links:
– European Commission Press Corner
– Digital Markets Act
– Open Web Advocacy
The source of the article is from the blog jomfruland.net