iOS 17.4—Game-Changing New Move Will Transform Your iPhone Forever
Apple's iOS 17.4 update will bring major changes to the iPhone, including opening up the app store and iOS ecosystem to outside parties for the first time. While this move will provide greater flexibility for EU users, Apple has warned that it also introduces significant security risks. This article explores the changes coming in iOS 17.4 and their potential impact on users.
What's Changing In iOS 17.4?
Apple's iOS 17.4 update is a response to the EU Digital Markets Act, which aims to boost competition and prevent tech giants from dominating the marketplace. The update will allow developers to distribute iOS apps through alternative app marketplaces, in addition to Apple's own app store. Developers will have access to new tools and APIs to facilitate this process and create their own app marketplaces. The update also introduces changes to contactless payments to comply with EU regulations.
It's important to note that these changes will initially only be available to users in the 27 EU countries. The UK, which is no longer a member of the EU, may be exempt from the changes for now, but could eventually be impacted by its own version of the Digital Markets Act.
One of the key changes in iOS 17.4 is the introduction of sideloading, which allows users to download apps from alternative app marketplaces. However, Apple will maintain some control over this process by only allowing certain app stores, referred to as 'App Marketplaces,' to distribute apps. These app stores must adhere to Apple's rules and regulations.
How Will Sideloading In iOS 17.4 Work?
Apple has implemented measures to ensure the security of sideloaded apps. Users will need to meet certain eligibility criteria, including factors such as their Apple ID billing address, location country, and device type. Additionally, Apple will restrict sideloading for devices originating from China, although the reasons for this restriction are unclear. Users will be able to check their device's region and eligibility through a new section in the 'About This iPhone' menu.
Apple also acknowledges the need to provide users with a choice of web browsers. In compliance with the Digital Markets Act, iOS 17.4 introduces a new choice screen that prompts EU users to select a default browser from a list of options when they first open Safari.
While these changes aim to increase competition and user choice, Apple has expressed concerns about the security risks associated with sideloading. The closed ecosystem of the App Store has been a key security feature of iOS, and opening it up to third-party app marketplaces may expose users to malicious apps and security threats.
What Are The Security Risks?
The main concern with sideloading is the potential for malicious apps and security vulnerabilities. Apps downloaded from outside of the App Store may contain scams, fraud, or illicit content that can harm users and their devices. Apple's anti-tracking feature, App Tracking Transparency, will still work with sideloaded apps, but some App Store features, such as Family Purchase Sharing and Ask to Buy, will not be compatible.
Apple acknowledges these risks and has implemented additional safeguards in iOS 17.4. Measures such as app notarization, authorization for marketplace developers, and disclosures on alternative payments aim to reduce these risks. However, Apple notes that many security risks will still exist even with these safeguards in place.
To protect their devices and data, users should exercise caution when downloading apps from alternative app marketplaces. Performing due diligence, checking reviews, and sticking to official app stores are recommended to maintain a secure iPhone experience.
