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Apple has unveiled the inaugural beta of iOS 17.5, bringing a new feature that allows users in the EU to download apps directly from developers' websites.
The beta was launched on Tuesday night, as reported by 9to5Mac. According to the site's analysis of past releases, Apple is expected to roll out the stable version next month. The addition of Web Distribution in iOS 17.5 now empowers EU users to comply with the EU Digital Markets Act regulation by installing apps from developers' websites.
Initially, this privilege is limited to 'authorized developers.' Apple will equip them with APIs to facilitate app distribution through the web. To qualify, developers must have been part of the Apple Developer Program for at least two years, maintain active status in the EU, and boast an iOS app that drew over a million 'initial installs' in the EU last year. Presently, iOS app distribution is confined to official app stores like the Apple App Store or forthcoming third-party alternatives.
In the near future, users within the EU will gain the ability to download individual apps from websites. Apple had previously initiated the acceptance of alternative app stores, but critiques from various sources still linger over controversial App Store policies. In line with the DMA, developers are also permitted to incorporate links to alternative payment methods for in-app purchases.
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