The European Union is poised to pass a new law this month. It aims to lift limitations on iOS devices, potentially allowing users to sideload apps.
The Digital Markets Act (DMA) was initially adopted in December 2020. It’s anticipated to be officially passed in early 2022.
At its heart, the DMA intends to prevent major digital platforms, or “gatekeepers,” from dictating what users can install on their devices.
The Digital Markets Act (DMA) has a strong foundation. It builds upon the Platform to Business Regulation, insights from the EU Observatory on the Online Platform Economy, and the European Commission’s extensive experience in online market competition law enforcement. Specifically, the DMA introduces a set of rules. These rules aim to define and prohibit unfair practices by these gatekeepers. The Act provides an enforcement mechanism rooted in focused market investigations. This same mechanism also ensures that the DMA’s obligations remain current with the ever-changing digital landscape. — European Commission.
You can delve into the full text of the Digital Markets Act at the provided link:
European Digital Markets Act (DMA)
We’re curious to hear your perspective on the Digital Markets Act. Share your insights and thoughts in the comments section below!
As it stands, iOS users can only get applications through Apple’s App Store.
However, the DMA could change this. It could pave the way for third-party app stores, enabling users to sideload apps not found in Apple’s official store.
Sideloading is a popular practice, especially on Firestick and Fire TV devices. These devices are often “jailbroken” to unlock streaming features. Learn more about sideloading.
If you’re interested in expanding your Firestick’s capabilities, check out our guide on how to jailbreak your Firestick.
Roku, similar to Apple, currently operates with a closed software system. This prevents users from “jailbreaking” their devices.
However, here at TROYPOINT, we’ve developed a workaround. Access our tutorial on how to jailbreak your Roku by clicking the link.
Recently, Roku even took measures to restrict private channel installations on their platform.
The DMA has its critics, including Apple, who primarily cite security concerns as the basis for their opposition.
In a statement provided to the Wall Street Journal, Apple expressed the following:
There’s a global consensus among governments and international agencies against sideloading mandates. They recognize it could undermine the privacy and security protections that users have come to rely on.
Apple argues that opening up devices to sideloading increases the risk of malware and other security vulnerabilities.
There have been cases where apps available on platforms like Google Play have managed to bypass security measures.
For example, see our report on an app containing data-stealing malware that was found in the Google Play Store.
The DMA also seeks to give app developers more flexibility in payment processing on iOS devices.
Currently, developers have to go through Apple’s App Store, which takes a 30% cut of all sales. This change could benefit them significantly.
If Apple chooses not to comply with the DMA, they could potentially face substantial financial penalties, possibly reaching tens of billions of dollars.
The US also has legislation in the works that targets Apple’s restrictions. It is currently under consideration in Congress.
In Europe, however, the DMA could be passed as early as this month and become effective in early 2023.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on the European Digital Markets Act. Do you believe that iOS users should have the freedom to install apps from any app store they choose?
Share your opinions and join the conversation in the comment section below!
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