Apple only just released iOS 17.3, but we probably won’t have to wait long for iOS 17.4. This is why the update is coming soon.
Apple is working on iOS 17.4
Last Monday, iOS 17.3 was released, containing a number of new features for your iPhone. After the update, your phone will be better protected against thieves with ‘Stolen Device Protection’. With that function, personal and security information can only be changed after unlocking via Face ID or Touch ID. So your iPhone has just had an update, but iOS 17.4 will probably arrive soon.
Also read: iOS 17.3: how ‘Stolen Device Protection’ works
This has to do with new European legislation, which states that users must also be able to download apps outside the App Store. Apple therefore has until March 6, 2024 to do so sideloading of apps in iOS and iPadOS. This will probably happen in iOS 17.4 (and iPadOS 17.4), which means Apple only has a limited time to release the update. These changes are coming then.
Side loading coming
Apple is therefore obliged to sideloading to be introduced soon. It is then possible to put apps on your iPhone via Safari, for example, without needing the App Store. At the moment it is almost only possible to install apps from the Store on your iPhone. Side loading iOS 17.4 will only come to Europe, because these adjustments are the result of new European legislation.
European legislation must ensure that small developers also get a fair chance when offering their apps. In the App Store they have to give a certain percentage to Apple and Apple determines which apps are offered in the Store. As of iOS 17.4, this is no longer the case, because developers can then offer all their apps via alternative online App Stores.
More changes in iOS 17.4
The question remains to what extent Apple gives developers freedom when offering apps in iOS 17.4. In similar situations in the United States, Apple still charges 27 percent commission to developers, even if the apps are not installed via the App Store. Moreover, the company still applies different rules there, which means that restrictions are also expected in Europe sideloading.
Also read: Apple is removing 2.3 million apps from the App Store – here’s why
This is not the only change that Apple is making in iOS 17.4, because Apple’s NFC chip must also be opened to third parties. This allows more payment methods to be added to the iPhone, so you are no longer limited to Apple Pay. This is also the result of European legislation. Would you like to know more about opening up the NFC chip? Then read more about the different payment methods here!
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