Apple has announced plans to allow iPhone users in the European Union (EU) to uninstall its Safari browser and transfer data to non-Apple phones, according to a compliance document published by the company. This move is in response to the EU’s new Digital Markets Act, which comes into effect this week.
The document outlines several user-facing initiatives that Apple plans to implement. By the end of 2024, EU-based iPhone users will be able to uninstall Safari, Apple’s first-party browser. Additionally, by fall 2025, Apple aims to develop a more “user-friendly” method for transferring data from an iPhone to a non-Apple phone.
Apple also plans to introduce a “browser switching solution” that will allow users to transfer data between different browsers on the same device. This feature is expected to be available by late 2024 or early 2025. Furthermore, by March 2025, iPhone users in the EU will have the ability to change the default navigation app on iOS.
It is unclear from the document whether these features will be available globally or exclusively for EU users. Apple has not provided clarification on this matter yet. However, previous compliance plans announced by Apple, such as the ability to run browser engines other than WebKit and install third-party app stores, have been limited to the EU.
The compliance document describes the phone data transfer feature as a solution that will assist mobile operating system providers in developing more user-friendly methods for transferring data from an iPhone to a non-Apple phone. It suggests that Apple’s plans will build upon existing migration tools offered by other companies.
Google already offers an iOS app called “Switch to Android” that allows users to transfer data, including contacts, photos, videos, free apps, texts, and notes. However, there are certain types of data that do not carry over, such as paid apps, Safari bookmarks, alarms, and miscellaneous files. Apple’s new solution could potentially address some of these limitations.
Overall, Apple’s compliance document reveals its commitment to meeting the requirements of the EU’s Digital Markets Act. By allowing users to uninstall Safari and transfer data to non-Apple phones, Apple aims to provide more flexibility and choice for iPhone users in the EU. These initiatives are part of Apple’s ongoing efforts to adapt to evolving regulations and enhance user experience.
