iPhone supports full versions of Chrome and Firefox
Apple's revolutionary changes to the iPhone operating system
Apple is making major changes to the iPhone operating system to comply with new regulations in the European Union. These changes affect the way mobile devices work, and Apple is taking steps to ensure compliance with the latest guidelines.
Allow alternative browsers on iOS
For the first time, Apple allows alternative browser engines to run on iOS. However, this change applies only to users within the European Union. Previously, Apple allowed different browsers on its App Store, but limited it to using the WebKit engine.
WebKit vs Chromium: The Battle of Browser Engines
WebKit, the engine that supports Safari, has been the exclusive engine for iPhone browsers. Chrome, on the other hand, relies on Chromium, the dominant engine used by Edge, Opera, Brave, Arc, and many other browsers. This move by Apple opens the door to various browser options on iPhones within the European Union.
Mozilla's Gecko for Firefox
Mozilla Firefox browser is based on its engine called Gecko. Apple's previous restrictions forced all browsers on iPhones to use WebKit, limiting the functionality of various features and add-ons.
Developer permissions and iOS 17.4 update
With the introduction of iOS 17.4, Apple allows developers to use engines other than WebKit, provided they have permission and meet certain criteria. Developers must adhere to ongoing privacy procedures and security obligations to access features such as password management and multitasking.
User selection and the new default browser screen in Safari
Apple introduces a new screen in the Safari browser that allows users when they open the browser for the first time to choose a different default browser if they wish. This change is in line with the EU's new digital markets law, giving users the option to uninstall pre-installed apps that direct them to Apple products and services.
Apple's response to regulatory requirements
Apple acknowledges that these changes stem from the requirements of the Digital Markets Act, noting that EU users will encounter a list of default browsers before being given the opportunity to understand their available options. The new screen also improves the user experience by guiding EU users when they first open Safari to explore different web browsers.
Q&A Section:
Q1: Why is Apple making these changes to its browser policy?
A1: Apple is adapting its browser policy to comply with the new EU Digital Markets Act, which imposes more choice for the user and competition in digital markets.
Q2: How does iOS 17.4 update affect developers?
A2: iOS 17.4 allows developers to use browser engines other than WebKit, but they must obtain permission from Apple and adhere to specific privacy and security measures.
Q3: What does Safari's new default browser screen offer to EU users?
A3: The new screen in Safari gives EU users the option to choose a different default browser when they first open the browser, in line with the Digital Markets Act.
Explore the revolutionary changes Apple has made to the iPhone, allowing for alternative browsers, the battle between WebKit and Chromium, and the impact on developers. Learn about the new user options and browser screen in Safari in compliance with the EU Digital Markets Act.