Apple users in the European Union can now access third-party app stores on their iPhones thanks to the iOS 17.4 update. However, there’s a catch – those who travel outside of the EU will only have a “grace period” before some features stop working.
According to Apple, users will lose the ability to install new alternative app marketplaces if they are away for too long. This move comes as Apple complies with the Digital Markets Act regulation, which will be in effect for all 27 EU countries starting March 7.
EU users can now set their preferred alternative app store as the default option via their device’s Settings. Parents also have the ability to control whether their children’s devices can install apps from these alternative marketplaces.
However, users must be physically located in the EU to access these alternative app stores. Apple ensures that device eligibility for access is determined by on-device processing, without collecting location data.
The first alternative app marketplace to launch in the EU is the Mobivention App Marketplace by a German IT service provider. Other companies, such as MacPaw and Epic Games, are also planning to launch their own alternative app marketplaces in the region.
It’s important to note that these changes to the App Store and access to alternative app marketplaces do not apply outside of the EU or on iPadOS. Users in the EU can now enjoy more flexibility and options when it comes to downloading apps on their iPhones.
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