Apple has finally released the iOS 17.4 update for all iPhone users. Many changes are included in the new update this time. Especially for those in the European Union. Aimed at complying with Europe's strict Digital Markets Act (DMA), the new update offers several changes.
A highlight is the option to sideload apps from third-party app stores. In general, apps cannot be downloaded on the iPhone except from Apple's own App Store. Now you can install apps from third party app stores as well. Also, the new update offers new emojis, option to choose default browser and several security fixes.
The EU introduced the new DMA law with the aim of preventing monopolization of the market by industrial firms. A new law in the European Union will help developers circumvent the exorbitant fees charged in Apple's App Store. Apple charges a fee of 50 percent per download if the number of downloads of the app exceeds 1 million in the App Store. Developers also have to pay Apple a certain amount for in-app purchases.
Another major change is NFC support for third-party apps. With the iOS 17.4 beta update, third-party app developers in the European Union will have access to NFC services for their banking and wallet apps.