Apple Adjusts EU Browser Choice Screens and App Default Settings Due to DMA Probe

Apple is once again adapting its approach to comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), unveiling a series of changes aimed at improving user choice and meeting regulatory requirements. Announced earlier this week, these updates include redesigned browser choice screens that will be rolled out in iOS and iPadOS version 18 later this year.

The revamped choice screens will feature a toolbar on the left-hand side, allowing users to select a preferred browser directly from the screen. The chosen browser will be pinned at the top of the list, streamlining the selection process. Users will need to scroll through a full list of the top 12 browsers available in their country, displayed in a randomized order. Each browser will also show more information, including the app subtitle from the App Store.

Once a user selects a default browser, if the browser is already installed on their device, it will immediately open with a notification confirming the new default status. If the selected browser is not yet installed, it will begin downloading automatically upon confirmation, and once installed, it will open with a confirmation notification. Additionally, the browser's icon will replace Safari in the dock if Safari was previously in that position.

A significant change is the increased frequency of the browser choice screen display. Under the new system, users will see the choice screen not just once, but every time they set Safari as their default browser, including when migrating to new devices. This adjustment aims to ensure that users are continually prompted to make a choice about their default browser.

Apple has also announced new default app settings for EU users. These include a centralized setting that allows users to view and manage all their default app choices. In addition, Apple will soon allow EU users to delete more of its default apps, including the App Store, Messages, Photos, Camera, and Safari. Users will be able to re-download any deleted default apps from the App Store or through the app installation settings if they need them again.

These changes come as part of Apple’s broader efforts to address criticisms regarding its browser choice screen design and overall compliance with the DMA’s requirements for user choice. The DMA, which aims to enhance competition and consumer choice in the digital marketplace, imposes significant penalties on companies that fail to comply with its regulations, including fines of up to 10% of global annual turnover.

The European Commission, responsible for enforcing the DMA, has been scrutinizing Apple’s compliance with its obligations, particularly regarding browser choice screens and default settings. Apple’s new measures are designed to address the Commission’s concerns and avoid the risk of substantial fines.

In March, the European Commission launched its first investigations into Apple’s adherence to the DMA, focusing on issues related to user choice and default settings. Since then, the EU has designated iPadOS as another core platform service under the DMA, requiring similar compliance changes for both iOS and iPadOS.

The Commission has indicated that it is still engaged in discussions with Apple and is monitoring the effectiveness of the company’s new solutions. The EU emphasized the importance of implementing these changes effectively and continuing dialogue to ensure compliance with the DMA’s objectives. The Commission will assess the impact of the new measures and decide on any further steps based on their effectiveness in achieving the regulatory goals.