Apple is making significant changes to iOS in compliance with EU directives, with a surprising new development. Apple will allow users in the EU to delete the App Store, along with other core iOS apps that were previously considered essential and non-deletable.
According to a news update on Apple’s Developer website, Apple will make apps like Messages, Photos, Camera, and Safari deletable for EU users. Currently, these apps can be removed from the Home Screen but are only moved to the App Library without the option to delete them completely.
This move follows Apple’s earlier decision to allow third-party app stores on iOS devices in the EU under the Digital Markets Act. Apple acknowledges the potential issues that may arise from not using the App Store, such as recurring subscription payments and limited support for apps downloaded from other stores.
These changes are expected to be implemented with iOS 18 and iPad OS 18 later this year, along with other EU-mandated adjustments. Additionally, iPhone users in the EU will now have a browser choice screen during setup, allowing them to select their preferred browser as default.
In the US, iPhone owners will not have the option to delete the App Store. The public release of iOS 18 is anticipated around September, coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 16 series.
