Apple avoids EU fines by changing browser settings on iPhone
Apple has successfully avoided potential fines and penalties from the European Commission by making changes to the browser selection settings on its devices as required by the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The investigation, which began in March 2024, will be concluded next week without sanctioning the company.
Here's What We Know
The European Commission expressed concern that the design of the web browser selection screen on the iPhone could discourage users from switching to alternative browsers or search engines. In response, Apple has made changes to allow users to select their preferred browser from a list of available options when Safari is first launched. This list includes 12 browsers, randomly ordered, and is accompanied by brief descriptions of each application. The selected browser is automatically downloaded and installed on the device.
Additionally, Apple plans to give users the ability to remove some pre-installed apps such as the App Store, Messages, Camera, Photos and Safari, leaving only Settings and Phone unchanged. It will also introduce a special section for managing default apps, allowing users to set preferred apps for messaging, calling, spam filtering, password management and keyboards.
Source: Reuters
