The DMA (Digital Markets Act) has been in force in the European Union for more than a month, and since then Apple has had to adapt iOS to the arrival of third-party app stores. But now he’s going one step further.
A new option has been added to third-party stores, Install apps directly from the Web, something that’s been available since iOS 17.5, whose beta version was just released. It was announced a few weeks ago but is now taking effect. It will reach all iPhone users in a few weeks. I repeat: only in the European Union.
Mandatory notarization and a process similar to macOS
Installing apps over the web is a milestone in iOS history and a significant change in the distribution of iPhone software. Developers no longer need to limit themselves to just the App Store or even third-party stores, as Apple announced its DMA compliance policy in January. Just download it from the web now.
One of the biggest concerns with the arrival of web-downloaded applications was the security of users; because not centralizing distribution caused the loss of control represented by a central body such as the App Store. However Apple enabled notarization path to strengthen security.
Notarization is the verification process that verifies that an application is secure and does what it says to prevent fraud or similar situations. This process has already been announced as mandatory for third-party stores and has now been extended to web downloads as well.
The same figure has been available on macOS for many years, but here the user can bypass this figure at his own risk and install practically any software. This will not be the case with the iPhone. Notary approval is completely required before an application can be installed.. Installation is not possible without notary approval.
When a user downloads an app from a developer’s website for the first time, he or she will be asked to confirm the developer while being informed about the security of the process. Then there are only a few steps left until the installation is completed, Its interface is very similar to the setup on Mac.. If the user wants to download another application from a developer they approve, the first part of the process will not be necessary.
This change aims to provide more flexibility and streamlines the process for developers. According to Apple, stems from conversations with “thousands of developers” about these changesincluding online consultancy, individual personal advice and assistance to the company’s laboratories in Ireland.
Another innovation that was announced in March and came into force today is that alternative stores will be able to offer only their own applications without opening up to third parties. This opens the door to the arrival of major platform stores that feature only their own software. For example, Netflix games, Google applications, etc. Each company will decide whether to choose this option or not.
They think they built from Apple best possible system Trying to protect users from inherent security threats side loading While adapting to DMA, he also mentions that it will be a process that will be familiar to those who have managed macOS.
There are three options for installing software on iPhone:
- App StoreHighlighted by Apple as the safest and most reliable place
- alternative stores, will come in the coming months
- Installation via webnow available in iOS 17.5 beta
A panorama that has changed a lot in a few months.
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Featured image | Xataka, Mockuuups Studio