Apple is developing the upcoming iOS 17.4 update, which introduces significant upgrades for iPhone and iPad in Europe, while also offering a wealth of new features worldwide.
Improvements in the European Union
To comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, Apple has made major changes to the functionality of the App Store and its apps within the EU, which are incorporated in the iOS 17.4 version, but only apply to countries in the European Union.
Alternative App Stores and New Economic Structure
Developers in the EU now have the ability to distribute their apps via alternative app stores, with Apple introducing a new fee structure that accompanies this modification. Developers can choose a new business model, applicable both for apps available through the App Store and for apps available through alternative methods.
Developers adopting the new system will be charged a flat fee of 0.50 euros per user annually, with the first million installations being free. Apps distributed via alternative app stores will not be subject to commissions. Applications distributed via the App Store will be subject to a 17% or 10% commission for those in the small business program or for user subscriptions exceeding one year. Developers also have the option not to participate in the new system, maintaining the existing 15-30% commission structure, which is applied globally. Apple provides a fee calculator to help developers estimate their fees based on the existing and new structure, using both the App Store and alternative app stores.
Alternative Payment Options and User Protection
Apple now allows apps to use alternative payment methods, freeing developers from the obligation to use Apple’s in-app purchases. Developers who choose this model and distribute apps via the App Store and use alternative payment methods will receive a 3% discount on their commissions. Those who choose alternative app stores and alternative payment methods will not have to pay a commission to Apple, except for the flat fee of 0.50 cents per user. Apple requires the use of reliable and secure payment providers for these transactions.
The iOS 17.4 update also offers new security features for users, such as warnings about malicious software in apps from alternative app stores and enhanced verification processes for apps not originating from the App Store. In addition, parents will have the ability to control via the “Screen Time” setting whether their children can install apps from alternative sources.
Additional Improvements:
- Third-Party Browser Updates: After the update, users in the EU will be able to choose a new default search engine from a list of popular browsers.
- NFC Access: Third-party payment apps and banks will have access to the NFC chip on iPhones, allowing for contactless payments without the use of Apple Pay.
- Changes in Game Apps: Streaming game apps are now allowed on the App Store worldwide, enabling standalone cloud game apps.
- New Emojis: New emoji characters are introduced, including new expressions, plants, and symbols, enriching the communication options of users.
- Messages with Siri: Siri’s ability to handle messages is improved, with new settings for automatic reading of incoming messages in various languages.
The iOS 17.4 update is expected to be released in March, likely in the first week of the month, bringing multiple improvements and new capabilities to Apple users around the world.
