Apple has announced that it will comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) by allowing third-party app stores and payment options on iOS devices in the EU. The changes will take effect in March 2024 with the release of iOS 17.4, which will also introduce new features and APIs for developers and users.

The DMA is a regulation that aims to prevent unfair practices by online platforms that act as gatekeepers in the digital economy. Apple, along with other tech giants such as Google, Amazon, Facebook, and Microsoft, was designated as a gatekeeper by the European Commission in September 2023, and was required to follow a set of obligations and prohibitions.

One of the main obligations for Apple was to allow users to download and install apps from third-party app stores, and to allow developers to use their own payment service providers within their apps. This means that users and developers will no longer be restricted to Apple’s App Store and its 15-30% commission fee for in-app purchases.

Apple said that it will introduce more than 600 new APIs, expanded app analytics, and new capabilities for alternative browser engines to enable developers to take advantage of the new options. However, Apple also warned that the new options will create new risks for users and their devices, such as malware, fraud, scams, illicit and harmful content, and privacy and security threats.

To mitigate these risks, Apple said that it will introduce new safeguards, such as notarization for iOS apps, authorization for marketplace developers, disclosures on alternative payments, and controls for contactless payments and default browser selection. Apple also said that it will provide new resources and guidance for users to help them navigate the changes and protect themselves from potential harm.

Apple said that the changes will only apply to the 27 EU countries, and that developers can choose to remain on the same business terms as before if they prefer. Apple also said that it will continue to deliver the best, most secure experience possible for its users in the EU and around the world.