The European Commission has started gathering information from Apple following the recent discontinuation of web apps in its iOS 17.4. The action may spur an investigation by European Union (EU) into potential competition law violations by the tech giant.
Concerns about monopolistic tendencies within global tech giants are growing, putting Apple possibly under the EU’s regulatory spotlight. This move has also led to speculation about the initiation of a comprehensive investigation into the business practices of Apple.
As part of these investigations, the European Commission is currently scrutinizing Apple’s compliance packages and expressing specific concerns about the challenges posed by progressive web apps. They are seeking additional information from both Apple and app creators.
Apple’s recent move to stop supporting iPhone web apps with iOS 17.4 is significant, converting web apps into bookmarks with no storage or push notifications. The change could disrupt user experiences, affecting the creation of web-based applications and possibly hampering small businesses and startups reliant on web apps.
This development came after the EU’s Digital Markets Act encouraged Apple to extend assistance to browsers other than Safari’s WebKit. Although complying with it entails technical complexities and security risks, Apple remains committed to providing an optimum user experience. Critics, however, see this as another strategic move by Apple to maintain control in the tech industry.
Despite concerns, Apple’s discontinuation of web app support does not seem to have impacted device usage significantly, hinting at the brand’s commitment to user safety amidst legislative shifts.
The Open Web Advocacy, a non-profit promoting the open web, is studying the potential impact of Apple’s decision on developers and plans to share their findings with the European Commission. Their aim is to influence regulatory decisions, ensuring fair competition in the app industry.
The European Commission’s detailed analysis of the situation and potential solutions aim to resolve the current issue. The assessment of economic, social, and environmental impacts of these solutions and final recommendations will likely conclude the investigation.
