Apple prepares for app sideloading in EU with upcoming iOS 17.4 release

Ahead of the March 6 deadline set by the EU's Digital Markets Act, Apple is getting ready for change by rolling out the first beta of iOS 17.4. The impending regulation requires Apple to allow iPhone users in EU countries to install apps outside of the App Store.

Expected to be released this week, iOS 17.4 may include crucial updates related to third-party app stores and app sideloading. Despite Apple's historical resistance to such changes, the company is compelled to comply with the Digital Markets Act, which aims to increase competition and consumer choice.

While Apple has expressed concerns about privacy and security risks associated with app sideloading, the company is likely to implement the necessary changes to meet regulatory requirements. The move follows a recent commitment by Apple to grant third-party payment apps access to the iPhone's NFC chip in compliance with EU regulations, fostering more competition in the mobile payments industry.

As the iOS 17.4 beta becomes available, users and developers will closely examine the updates and changes, shedding light on how Apple navigates the regulatory landscape while maintaining its ecosystem's security and privacy features.