Apple surrenders to EU, lets users choose Default Apps

Apple will bring a choice screen to alter the Default Apps across the EU. The company known for its restricted ecosystem is gradually surrendering to the European Union. Stock apps could also be uninstalled in the region.

Recently, Apple officially announced iPhone and iPad users in the EU will be able to alter the Default Apps and uninstall pre-loaded native apps. The move comes to comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act.

Apple users will now get a Choice Screen to set the Default Web Browser. Following the upgrade due later this year, iPhone and iPad owners will have the option to change default apps through a pop-up screen during the initial setup.

iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 will include a new Default Apps section in Settings in EU. Users will get new default settings for dialing phone numbers, sending messages, translating text, navigation, managing passwords, keyboards, and call spam filters.

“By the end of this year, we’ll make changes to the browser choice screen, default apps, and app deletion for iOS and iPadOS for users in the EU. These updates come from our ongoing and continuing dialogue with the European Commission about compliance with the Digital Market Act’s requirements in these areas.” – Apple Newsroom.

Not that all but users can also replace the default calling and messaging apps with their third-party alternatives. These default settings can be changed in a new settings section that will be added in the future through an upgrade.

Pre-loaded Apple apps such as Safari, App Store, Photos, Camera, and iMessage can now be uninstalled. Pre-installed apps basically called bloatware come with restrictions on deletion from the manufacturer.

Apple confirmed the arrival of Choice Screen in March this year. Third-party app platforms accused the company of violating DMA provisions. Later, the EU investigated the violations and ordered the modification of the Choice Screen.