Apple to Stop App Updates Outside EU After a Month

What’s going on here?

Apple has announced a policy where iPhones will no longer receive updates from third-party app stores if the device is taken out of the European Union for more than 30 days. This update follows the implementation of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which compels Apple to allow alternative app marketplaces on its devices. While users can still use and manage apps installed from these alternative marketplaces outside the EU, they need to return to the EU to get updates after the 30-day period. This decision is part of Apple’s adaptation to the DMA, allowing iOS 17.4 or later users in the EU to install and use apps from third-party app stores with certain limits.

What does this mean?

This means that while Apple is conforming to the new EU regulations by allowing third-party app stores, it’s imposing restrictions on how and when users can update their apps from these stores when traveling outside the EU. Travelers or those living outside the EU for extended periods will find this particularly challenging as they cannot update their apps via these alternative marketplaces beyond the 30-day period. This policy is a significant change for Apple, reflecting its attempt to balance between adhering to the DMA requirements while still maintaining some control over how apps are distributed and updated on its devices.

Why should I care?

You should care because this policy change affects how you access and update apps on your iPhone, especially if you frequently travel outside the EU or plan to stay abroad for an extended period. It highlights the evolving landscape of app distribution on iOS platforms, influenced by regulatory pressures like the DMA. This shift could impact your app usage, especially for apps that require regular updates to function correctly or to receive new features. It also indicates a broader movement towards opening up the iOS ecosystem to alternative app marketplaces, potentially offering users more choices and altering how app developers distribute their software.

For more information, check out the original article here.