Apple has introduced a significant change in its upcoming iOS 18.2 release, granting third-party browsers the ability to create and run web apps with their own custom engines for users in the EU (via 9to5Mac).
Previously, Apple allowed third-party web browsers to add web apps to the iPhone’s Home Screen in iOS 17. However, the technology behind those apps was still tied to Apple’s own WebKit, maintaining uniformity across all browsers on iOS devices.
With the arrival of iOS 18.2, users in the EU will see a much more flexible experience, as browsers can now use their own engines for web apps, providing greater variety and customization possibilities.
While this change opens up more options for developers and users alike in the EU, Apple has maintained its requirement for Safari’s WebKit in other regions. This means that, outside the EU, web browsers on iPhone and iPad will still be required to use Safari’s engine to create and run web apps.
The ability to use custom browser engines for web apps in the EU stems from regulatory pressure from the European Commission, which has been pushing for more openness in Apple’s ecosystem.
There was speculation that Apple initially considered removing the ability to add web apps to the Home Screen in the EU entirely, rather than allowing browsers to use custom engines. However, after facing scrutiny and potential investigation from the EU Commission, Apple decided to allow the feature to remain.
Apple’s new API, which facilitates the addition of web apps via third-party browsers, will only be accessible to browsers distributed within the EU.
This exclusive regional availability is a direct result of the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which has sought to create more competition and flexibility in the digital marketplace. The rest of the world, however, will still have to follow Apple’s existing restrictions.
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When I buy a Mercedes, I really don’t expect a regulatory body to force them to make allowances for installing the third party engines from Toyota or Honda in Mercedes vehicles.