Introduction: Apple introduced the first beta version of iOS 17.4 towards the end of January, bringing forth significant updates such as access to third-party App Store alternatives, default web browsing apps, new emojis, and more. While developers have been refining the system since its release, there’s a particular change that caught many off guard.
The Unexpected Change in iOS 17.4: Recently, developer Maximiliano Firtman uncovered a functionality withdrawal within iOS 17.4 that holds significant implications for iPhone users across Europe. Curious to know more about this unexpected alteration?
The Most Surprising Alteration in iOS 17.4: The latest beta version of iOS 17.4 finally incorporates access to third-party app stores to comply with the regulations outlined in the new Digital Markets Act (DMA) by the European Union. However, iOS 17.4 also introduces a change that may disappoint iPhone users.
It appears that, as indicated by sources at 9to5mac, iOS 17.4 no longer supports the installation of web applications or web apps directly onto the iPhone home screen to function as standalone applications. Instead, they will now launch directly within the web browser.
Developer Maximiliano Firtman discovered that the iOS 17.4 beta eliminates support for Progressive Web Applications (PWA) within the system, but exclusively for users located in the European Union.
Initially presumed to be a minor bug, the introduction of the second beta version of iOS 17.4 confirmed the absence of web applications within the system. Now, iOS 17.4 notifies iPhone users that web apps “will open from your default web browser.”
Roots of Change: This modification is evidently influenced by the initiative to switch default web browsing apps in iOS 17.4. With the new software update, iPhone users gain access to a selection menu featuring additional web browsing apps to choose as default, replacing Safari. Consequently, web apps now launch directly within a web browser, deviating from their prior standalone app format.
Moreover, with the iOS 17.4 update, all data stored within web apps will be automatically deleted.
How to Install a Web App on iOS 17: To add a web app to your iPhone, simply follow these steps:
- Navigate to a website.
- Tap the share button.
- Select the “Add to Home Screen” option.
Conclusion: The introduction of iOS 17.4 brings forth unexpected changes, particularly impacting iPhone users in Europe. While some updates may offer benefits, such as the ability to select default web browsing apps, others, like the removal of support for Progressive Web Applications, have sparked concern and debate within the Apple user community.