iOS 17.4 update content introduction
The latest iOS 17.4 update is now live, bringing a slew of exciting new features and improvements to iPhone users.This update brings higher performance and more convenience to users. Let’s take a look at what important changes iOS 17.4 brings.
iOS 17.4 update content introduction
The main content is to test open sideloading and third-party app stores for 27 EU countries. In addition to major improvements, it also adds multiple Emoji emoticons.
Changes to iOS
In the EU, Apple will make several changes to iOS following the DMA.For developers, these changes include new options for publishing apps.Changes to iOS in the EU include:
New options for distributing iOS apps through alternative app markets — including new APIs and tools that enable developers to make iOS apps available for download in app markets other than the App Store.
Create a new framework and API to replace the App Market - enabling marketplace developers to install apps and manage updates on behalf of other developers through their dedicated Market App.
New frameworks and APIs for alternative browser engines - Enable developers to use browser engines other than WebKit to deliver browser apps and apps that include in-app browsing experiences.
Interoperability Request Form – Developers can submit additional requests to interoperate iPhone and iOS software and hardware features.
Safari changes
iOS users can now set third-party web browsers as their default browser instead of Safari.As stipulated by the DMA, Apple will also introduce a new selectable interface that will be displayed when users first open the Safari browser in iOS 17.4 or later versions.This interface will prompt EU users to select a default browser from a list of options.
The change, made in response to DMA regulations, means EU users will have to deal with a list of default browsers before they know what options are available.The interface will also interrupt EU users’ experience before they open Safari for the first time and try to access a web page.
Changes to the App Store
On the App Store, Apple will share a series of changes that will affect developers publishing apps in the EU, affecting apps for Apple operating systems such as iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS and tvOS.The changes also include new disclosures to inform EU users of the risks associated with using alternatives to secure payment processing on the App Store.
For developers, these changes include:
New option to use a Payment Service Provider (PSP) – to process payments for digital goods and services within a developer’s app.
New option to process payments via external links – users can complete transactions for digital goods and services on a developer’s external website.Developers can also show promotions, discounts and other offers to EU users outside of their app.
Business Planning Tool - For developers to estimate costs and understand metrics related to Apple's new business terms for apps in the EU.
The changes also include new measures to protect and inform EU users, including:
App Store product page label - Notifies users when an app they are about to download uses an alternative payment processing method.
In-App Disclosure Form - Notifies users when they are not conducting transactions through Apple and when developers direct users to use alternative payment processing methods.
New App Review Process – to verify that developers accurately present information about transactions using alternative payment processing methods.
Apple Data & Privacy website expands data migration capabilities - EU users can obtain new data about their App Store usage and export it to authorized third parties.
The OS 17.4 update brings many exciting new features and improvements to iPhone users.From improving performance and stability to adding privacy and security measures, this update brings a better user experience.We look forward to more iOS updates in the future, bringing more surprises and conveniences to our smartphones.
