With iOS 18.2, you can remove the App Store, Safari, and more Apple apps from your iPhone and iPad
The iPhone is about to change completely, at least in Europe. Apple, under pressure from EU antitrust laws, has announced a move that would have been unthinkable a few years ago: users will be able to remove the App Store and other native apps from their devices.
This change will arrive with iOS 18.2, the next update to Apple's operating system, and with it European users will be able to say goodbye to apps like Safari, Camera, Messages, and Photos if that's what they want by removing them.
But why such a radical change? The answer lies in the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). This regulation seeks to make tech giants give more freedom to users. And Apple, while it hasn’t made it easy, is now complying.
“Later this year, we will be making changes to the default browser and app selection screen and app removal for iOS and iPadOS for EU users. These updates are the result of our ongoing dialogue with the European Commission on compliance with the Digital Market Act requirements in these areas,” the company commented.
Now, if you delete the App Store, how will you download new apps? Apple has thought of that. In Europe, alternative app stores will be allowed. Also, if you regret it, you can restore the official App Store from your iPhone settings.
But the changes are not limited to Europe. iOS 18.2 will bring new features to all users worldwide. For example, it will be easier to choose which apps you want to use as default for email, messages, calls, and web browsing. It will give its users complete freedom to choose what suits them.
Of course, as many have already expected, the update will also include new AI features, such as Image Playground, Genmoji, and visual search. However, these features will be limited to the latest iPhones and iPads.
At the moment, iOS 18.2 is in beta and is only available to developers. It is expected to reach the general public in December. So you still have a little time to experience these changes. Of course, it is certainly a good Christmas gift from Apple to European citizens.