## European Union Orders Apple to Permit Sideloading on iPadOS Within Six Months
The Digital Markets Act (DMA) of the European Union (EU) has significantly changed the dynamics of the technology sector, establishing new rules that have greatly influenced the business approach of leading tech firms. It has particularly affected Apple’s iOS. Since March with the release of iOS 17.4, iPhones in the EU are required to allow other app marketplaces, app sideloading, and non-Apple browser engines.
iPadOS from Apple Now Categorized as a “Gatekeeper”
Recently, EU regulatory officials declared Apple’s iPadOS as a “gatekeeper.” This means iPad will soon comply with the same regulations put on iPhone. The inquiry into whether iPadOS could be defined as a gatekeeper commenced in September 2023, coinciding with the day it was established that iOS, the Safari browser, and the App Store are all gatekeepers.
Apple has been provided six months to ensure total compliance of iPadOS with the DMA obligations. The company technically separated the iPad’s operating system from the iPhone’s in 2019, creating the “iPadOS.” Nevertheless, both systems share numerous similarities, such as software build numbers and updating schedules. Essentially, both use software from the same secured App Store with the same conditions implemented by Apple.
Effect on Apps and Developers
Apps circulated through different app marketplaces or third-party websites must still comply with many rules set by Apple and will usually be confined to using Apple’s public APIs. Nevertheless, the capability to utilize other app stores and browser engines on the iPad’s broad screen could enable the tablets to be superior substitutes for laptops.
Even though Apple is striving to comply with the DMA, EU regulators are scrutinizing Apple, Google, and Meta for “non-compliance.” Depending on the investigation’s outcome, the EU might impose more alterations on how Apple allows third-party apps to be installed and marketed.
Consequences for Users Based in the US
While these alterations are substantial for EU users, they do not directly impact users of iPhones or iPads who are based in the US. Devices in the US continue to be restricted to Apple’s app stores and the WebKit browsing engine. However, some recent changes in App Store rules have arguably been derived from Apple’s efforts to comply with the DMA.
Conclusion
The DMA of the EU is transforming the tech scenario, especially for big players like Apple. With the classification of iPadOS now as a “gatekeeper,” Apple is given a six-month period to ensure full compliance with the rules set by the DMA. While these alterations are currently specific to the EU, they could potentially influence Apple’s operations worldwide, including in the US.
Questions & Answers
Q1: What is the Digital Markets Act (DMA)?
A1: The DMA is a regulation implemented by the European Union to foster fair competition in digital markets. It has had a considerable influence on tech companies, compelling them to allow other app markets, app sideloading, and non-Apple browser engines.
Q2: What is the implication of iPadOS being labeled as a “gatekeeper”?
A2: If iPadOS is labeled as a “gatekeeper”, it indicates that it will have to abide by the same regulations as the iPhone under the DMA. This covers the support for other app markets, app sideloading, and non-Apple browser engines.
Q3: How will these alterations influence apps and developers?
A3: Apps disseminated through other app markets or third-party websites will still need to comply with many of Apple’s rules. However, they will now gain more flexibility in distribution and functionality, possibly making iPads more versatile devices.
Q4: Will these alterations impact users based in the US?
A4: These alterations will not directly impact users in the US, as devices in the US continue to be confined to Apple’s app stores and the WebKit browsing engine. However, some recent changes in App Store rules have arguably been inspired by Apple’s attempts to comply with the DMA.
