Apple has announced that it will reverse its decision to discontinue web app support in the European Union (EU). The tech giant initially planned to drop support for the installation of progressive web apps, which would have limited their functionality by preventing push notifications and data storage. However, Apple has now stated that it will continue to offer existing home screen web app capabilities in the EU with the release of iOS 17.4 in early March.
The reversal comes after Apple received requests from both developers and users to continue supporting web apps. The decision to discontinue web apps had drawn criticism from the nonprofit organization Open Web Advocacy, which conducted a survey to gauge the impact on developers. Additionally, the European Commission had scrutinized Apple’s decision.
Apple’s original plan to drop web app support was attributed to the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which required significant changes to comply with the legislation. Apple stated that building an entirely new integration architecture to meet the DMA requirements was not practical. However, the company has now found a way to maintain existing functionality for home screen web apps while complying with the DMA.
It is important to note that although Apple will continue to support home screen web apps, they will still be built directly on WebKit, the engine used by Safari. This means that web apps downloaded from third-party browsers like Google Chrome or Firefox may not be powered by their own engines. Despite this limitation, the decision to retain web app support is a positive development for developers and users who rely on these apps for various purposes.
The reversal of Apple’s decision showcases the company’s responsiveness to user feedback and its commitment to meeting the needs of its customers. By reconsidering its initial plan and finding a way to continue supporting web apps, Apple demonstrates its dedication to providing a seamless user experience and maintaining a strong developer community.
As iOS 17.4 is set to be released in early March, users can look forward to enjoying the existing functionality of home screen web apps without any disruptions. This decision ensures that users in the EU can continue to benefit from the convenience and versatility of web apps on their Apple devices.
In conclusion, Apple’s reversal of its decision to discontinue web app support in the EU is a positive development for developers and users alike. By responding to user requests and finding a way to comply with the DMA, Apple ensures that home screen web apps will continue to be available on iOS 17.4. This decision highlights Apple’s commitment to providing a seamless user experience and maintaining a strong developer community.
