Apple to Allow Alternative App Stores and Browsers on iPads in EU
Starting September 16, iPad users in the EU can download apps from third-party marketplaces and use non-WebKit browsers.
Overview
- Apple's decision follows the EU's Digital Markets Act, which designated iPadOS as a 'core platform service' in April.
- Users will be able to install apps from alternative app stores and uninstall preloaded apps on their iPads.
- Epic Games and other third-party app stores have already committed to supporting iPads in the EU.
- Developers can now release browsers for iPad that use their own engines instead of Apple's WebKit.
- Apple had six months to comply with the DMA, aligning iPadOS with changes previously made to iOS.