EU iPhone users are getting the ability to change default apps

Apple will soon let iPhone users in the EU change the default phone, messaging, and other apps. The changes aren’t expected to take place this year but they could have a significant impact.

iPhones in the EU could soon have different apps for messaging and other default functions

Apple has been quite adamant about not letting iPhone users switch to other apps for default functions and features. In other words, iPhone users have to rely on iMessage and other default apps for calling and typing.

Apple iPhone users in the EU, however, will be able to set different apps as default or system apps. A new “Default Apps” section in the iPhone’s main Settings page will allow setting third-party apps for typing, calling, and exchanging messages on an iPhone.

More DMA-related changes are coming to iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 later this year. EU users will soon be allowed to change even more default apps on their devices, include those used for phone calls, messaging, and navigation https://t.co/JrkW2AAJS6 pic.twitter.com/juLisWDVuB

— Laurent Giret (@laurentgiret) August 22, 2024

Apple has officially confirmed it is adding the new Default Apps section. Moreover, the new section will also appear in Apple iPads.

Nearly all default Apple apps could be replaced with third-party alternatives. Specifically speaking, Apple has indicated it will also allow users to replace default navigation, and translation apps, and use third-party call spam filters as well as keyboard and password management apps.

Pop-ups will inform users about alternative apps

The Apple iOS will flash a pop-up when a user first opens Safari on their iPhone. This pop-up will reportedly inform iPhone users in the EU that they can install alternate browsers like Firefox, Chrome, or DuckDuckGo.

Apple has traditionally insisted iPhone users use the Safari web browser, claiming it is safe and secure. However, Apple would soon ask EU iPhone users to scroll through the entire list of default browsers before selecting an option.

EU users will gain options to set default
– navigation app
– translation app
– phone calls
– messaging
– password managers
– keyboards

also delete App Store, Messages, Cameera, Photos and Safari appshttps://t.co/dFb9X48vwW pic.twitter.com/vMLU2H7AUo

— Marcin Krzyzanowski (@krzyzanowskim) August 22, 2024

iPhones in the EU will also display the browser’s App Store caption on the choice screen. Apple may also have to share more data about the performance of the “Choice screen” with third-party browser app developers.

Apple currently allows EU iPhone users in the EU to use third-party web browsers, email apps, and App Store alternatives. However, moving forward, Apple will reportedly add the ability to delete the App Store, Messages, Camera, Photos, and Safari apps. EU iPhone users won’t be able to delete the Phone and Settings apps but they can use third-party payment apps with the device’s NFC.