iOS 17.4 Update Guide: EU Innovations and Global Improvements for iPhone and iPad

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 European legislation under the Digital Markets Act, Apple has made major changes to how the App Store and apps operate within the EU. These changes are incorporated into iOS 17.4 but apply only in European Union countries.

Alternative App Stores and a New Fee Structure

Developers in the EU can now distribute their apps through alternative app stores, with Apple introducing a new fee structure alongside this change. Developers can opt for a new business model that applies both to apps distributed through the App Store and to those distributed through alternative channels.

Developers who adopt the new system will be charged a flat fee of 0,50 euros per user annually, with the first million installations free of charge. Apps distributed through alternative app stores will not be subject to commission. Apps distributed through the App Store will be subject to a commission of 17% or 10% for those in the small business programme or for user subscriptions lasting more than one year. Developers also have the option not to join the new system, retaining the existing 15-30% commission structure, which applies worldwide. Apple provides a fee calculator to help developers estimate their fees under the existing and new structures, 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 requirement to use Apple's in-app purchases. Developers who choose this model, distribute apps through the App Store and use alternative payment methods will receive a 3% discount on their commission fees. Those who choose alternative app stores and alternative payment methods will not need to pay Apple any commission, apart from 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 malware warnings for apps from alternative app stores and enhanced verification processes for apps that do not come from the App Store. In addition, parents will be able to control whether their children can install apps from alternative sources through the "Screen Time" setting.

Further 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.
• Access to NFC: Third-party payment apps and banks will have access to the iPhone's NFC chip, enabling contactless payments without using Apple Pay.
• Changes to Gaming Apps: Game streaming apps are now allowed on the App Store worldwide, enabling standalone cloud gaming apps.
• New Emoji: New emoji characters are being introduced, including new expressions, plants and symbols, expanding users' communication options.
• Messaging with Siri: Siri's ability to manage messages is being improved, with new settings for automatically reading incoming messages in various languages.

The iOS 17.4 update is expected to be released in March, most likely in the first week of the month, bringing numerous improvements and new features to Apple users around the world.