A new European law requires Apple to open iOS in 2024. You may already be able to see the first details of this in iOS 17.

Apple has always kept iOS (and iPadOS) completely closed, requiring users to go through the App Store for everything. The so-called walled garden will soon have to be overtaken thanks to the European Digital Market Act (DMA). It’s been active since last year, but big tech companies have until 2024 to comply with the new rules. The law requires apps to be activated load sidewayswhich also opens the door for new app stores.

According to Bloomberg, Apple is working on the foundation of iOS 17 to make this change. It’s working on a safe way to do this. The changes are expected to be announced at Apple’s upcoming developer conference (WWDC), which starts on June 5.

It’s currently unclear if Apple will allow third-party apps outside of the App Store right away in iOS 17, or if it’s working on its architecture to later introduce them in future software updates. We think it’s very likely that Apple will want to delay this move until the very last minute.

Apple CEO Tim Cook has been pointing out Apple’s privacy and security risks for years load sideways. According to Apple software boss Craig Federighi, the possibility of sideloading opens the door to the malware industry for cybercriminals.