Key Points:
- Expanded App Control: EU users can now set default apps for messaging, phone calls, and more in iOS 18.
- Deletable Apple Apps: Key Apple apps like Safari and Messages can be deleted.
- Updated Browser Choice: Changes to the browser selection screen enhance user control.
Apple is rolling out significant updates to its iPhone and iPad policies in the European Union with the upcoming iOS 18. These changes give users more control over their devices, specifically regarding default apps, browser settings, and deletable apps.
Updated Browser Choice Screen
Earlier this year, Apple introduced a browser choice screen, letting users in the EU choose their default browser when first launching Safari after updating to iOS 17.4. Now, with a new update expected later this year, Apple is refining this feature even further:
- Universal Prompt: All users with Safari as their default browser will be prompted again to choose their default browser after the update, even if they’ve done so before.
- Selective Display: The choice screen won’t appear if you’ve already set a non-Safari browser as your default.
- Device-Specific Setting: Unlike other settings, the default browser choice won’t carry over if you migrate to a new device and have Safari set as your default.
Apple is also redesigning the browser choice screen:
- Direct Selection: Users can select their preferred browser directly from the screen without needing to visit the App Store page.
- Detailed Information: Each browser’s description will include its App Store subtitle, and users can view more details by tapping a chevron next to each option.
- Download Progress: If the selected browser isn’t already installed, its download progress will be shown on the choice screen before automatically opening.
- Home Screen Integration: If you choose a browser not currently installed, its icon will replace Safari’s on your Home Screen or Dock.
Browser developers will also gain access to new performance data via an API, allowing them to see how often their browser is selected as the default.
Expanded Default App Controls
Apple is also making it easier to manage default apps beyond just browsers. With iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, a new “Default Apps” section will appear in the Settings app, giving users the ability to set defaults for more app categories:
- Phone Calls and Messaging: Users will be able to choose their preferred apps for making calls and sending messages.
- Password Managers and Keyboards: Defaults can be set for password management and keyboard apps.
- Spam Filters: Users can also set default apps for filtering spam calls.
In addition, by spring 2025, Apple plans to expand these options further, allowing users to set defaults for navigation and translation apps.
Deletable Apps
In a move that gives users even more control, Apple will soon allow users to delete several of its core apps, including the App Store, Messages, Camera, Photos, and Safari. This change is part of a broader effort to comply with EU regulations and provide users with more flexibility in managing their devices.
These updates in iOS 18 reflect Apple’s ongoing adjustments to meet the regulatory demands of the EU, while also offering users more customization options and control over their device’s software.
