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‘They are expected to make a comeback in the upcoming iOS 17.4 release, set to launch early this month.’
Apple has reversed its decision to remove home screen web apps in the European Union (EU). Initially, the company cited the Digital Markets Act’s (DMA) requirement to support non-WebKit browsers as the reason for the removal. However, Apple has now announced that European users will regain the same web app experience they had before when iOS 17.4 is released early this month.
In an updated developer support document, Apple stated, “We have received requests to continue to offer support for Home Screen web apps in iOS, therefore we will continue to offer the existing Home Screen web apps capability in the EU. This support means Home Screen web apps continue to be built directly on WebKit and its security architecture, and align with the security and privacy model for native apps on iOS.”
Progressive web apps (PWAs), which function similarly to native apps, were temporarily removed for European customers in the second iOS 17.4 beta. Instead, users were prompted to open the website in Safari. Apple previously claimed that web app support could compromise security due to the DMA’s requirement to support non-WebKit browser engines.
Apple faced criticism for its initial decision to remove web apps. The Open Web Advocacy organization accused the company of failing to facilitate true browser competition worldwide. European Commission officials also expressed dissatisfaction with the removal and hinted at a potential formal investigation.
It is unclear what exactly prompted Apple to reverse its decision. The company has not provided further details and has framed the reversal as a response to user requests. Regardless, European iOS 17.4 beta users will regain access to web apps once the final version of the software is released.