In a significant shift for Apple's ecosystem, iPad users in the European Union will soon have more freedom in how they obtain and manage apps on their devices. This change, set to take effect on September 16, 2023, coincides with the release of iPadOS 18 and marks a major step in Apple's compliance with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA).
Key Changes for EU iPad Users
- Third-Party App Stores: Users will be able to download and install apps from alternative marketplaces, breaking Apple's longstanding App Store monopoly on the platform.
- App Uninstallation: The ability to remove pre-installed Apple apps, giving users more control over their device's software.
- Default App Selection: Users can choose their preferred default apps, including web browsers.
- Browser Engine Freedom: App developers can now use browser engines other than WebKit, potentially leading to more diverse web experiences on iPads.
Why This Matters
This move follows similar changes implemented for iPhones earlier this year, after the EU designated iPadOS as a core platform service under the DMA in April. The decision came despite Apple's initial argument that iPadOS didn't meet the user threshold requirements for DMA regulation.
EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager emphasized the iPad's role as an important gateway on which many companies rely to reach their customers, justifying its inclusion under the DMA's purview.
What to Expect
Several third-party app stores that launched for iPhones in the EU are expected to extend their services to iPads. Notable examples include:
- Setapp Mobile
- AltStore PAL
- Epic Games Store (with iPad support planned for this year)
This development is particularly exciting for gaming enthusiasts, as it may herald the return of popular titles like Fortnite to the iPad platform.
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| Fortnite's return to iPads is on the horizon with the new changes in the app ecosystem |
Looking Ahead
While these changes are currently limited to the European Union, they represent a significant crack in Apple's walled garden approach. The tech community will be watching closely to see how this impacts app diversity, security, and the overall user experience on iPads in the EU, and whether similar changes might eventually spread to other regions.
As the September 16 launch date approaches, both users and developers are poised to explore the new possibilities this open ecosystem will bring to the iPad platform.