KEY POINTS

  • Apple might soon allow consumers to change their default apps on their iPhones and iPads, says a new report
  • This could include web browser, mail, maps
  • The plan is at its early stages and might be available when Apple releases iOS 14, according to the report

The Cupertino tech company might allow customers more control over their iPads and iPhones. Apple is said to be looking into allowing its product users to select their preferred default iOS apps for a wide range of tasks. This includes web browsing, maps, and even email, reveals a new report.

Third-Party Apps Could Be Used To Replace Default iOS Devices

The news could mean that the default Safari web browsing app on the iPhone could be replaced with alternative apps like Google. Apple’s plan is believed to be in its early phase, and according to Bloomberg, these changes could arrive alongside iOS 14 or in the update for its HomePod firmware. Earlier, several sites revealed that the Cupertino company is working on allowing Spotify and other third-party apps to play on its devices like the HomePod smart speaker directly.

Reports claimed that with this move, third-party apps would no longer need to use AirPlay to stream the user’s favorite music. While it might sound like a minor change, it is a major development for Apple and rival apps.

The EU is concerned that Apple's exclusivity over its Apple Pay service is making it difficult for mobile payment competitors
The EU is concerned that Apple's exclusivity over its Apple Pay service is making it difficult for mobile payment competitors GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Drew Angerer

Other Details

Apple launched the App Store in 2008, and since then, the company launched a closed ecosystem. Because of this, Apple enjoyed a particular level of quality control for users of its iPhones and iPads. It also benefited from exclusive customer use of its in-house apps.

But, over the years, regulators, developers, and even consumers increased pressure and throw criticisms on this practice. Last year, the US House of Representatives antitrust panel questioned Apple’s closed system. Lawmakers asked if iPhone users could allow third-party apps to be the defaults in maps, web browsing, email, and music.

In 2019, Spotify filed an antitrust complaint to the EU against Apple for imposing a 30 percent cut for subscriptions users made through the App Store. The complaint also underlined its inability to run on Apple’s HomePod smart speaker directly. At present, Apple releases iPads and iPhones with 38 default apps.

Apple has not yet released any statement related to this recent news. The Cupertino company usually makes major announcements in June for its iPhone and iPad updates and roll them out by Sept.

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