Starting September 16, iPad users in the European Union will be able to download apps from third-party app stores. This change will coincide with the release of iPadOS 18 and is in compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), a law aimed at ensuring fair competition in digital markets.
iPadOS 18 Unlocks New Options for Users
Apple’s decision comes after the European Commission designated iPadOS as a “core platform service” in April, which subjected the operating system to the rules of the DMA. Apple had already allowed alternative app stores on iPhones earlier this year under the same legislation, and now it is bringing similar changes to iPads.
Although the number of iPadOS users fell below the DMA’s required threshold, the European Commission noted significant lock-in effects for business users and retained the flexibility to include iPadOS. Apple was given six months to make its iPad operating system compliant with these rules, leading to this update.
Changes Bring More Flexibility to iPad Users
According to MacRumors, the new iPadOS update will allow EU users to install alternative app stores, providing more flexibility for downloading apps. Developers will also be able to launch browsers that use their own engines, bypassing Apple’s requirement for WebKit. This is a notable shift, as developers can now provide new browser experiences for iPad users in the EU.
Several third-party app stores are already available for iPhone users, including Setapp Mobile, AltStore PAL, and Epic Games Store. Epic Games has confirmed that it plans to bring Fortnite and its other games to iPads, expanding its presence in the EU market.
Apple’s Compliance with DMA Brings New Features
The changes do not stop at app stores. The DMA requires Apple to allow users to delete pre-installed apps, giving them the freedom to choose alternative default apps, such as browsers. Additionally, developers will now be able to build apps that run on their own browser engines instead of being restricted to WebKit, the engine behind Safari.
While Apple initially argued that iPadOS should not be subject to the DMA due to its lower user base, the European Commission recognized the importance of the iPad platform for businesses and its role in the broader ecosystem. EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager emphasized that iPads play a crucial role for many companies looking to reach their customers.
End Note
As Apple prepares to roll out iPadOS 18 in compliance with the DMA, iPad users in the EU will see a broader range of app choices and greater control over their devices. With major third-party stores like Epic Games on board, users can expect more app options and experiences on iPads, starting September 16. This shift marks a significant step towards a more open app ecosystem for Apple devices in the European Union, a move that could influence future decisions on platforms worldwide.
