Starting with iOS 17.4, which is presently in beta, Apple will allow alternative app markets on the iPhone in the EU. Apple made this move to comply with new requirements under the EU's Digital Markets Act, which go into effect next month.
In an interview with Fast Company's Michael Grothaus published today, Apple's former marketing boss and current App Store head, Phil Schiller, stated that these alternative app stores pose privacy and security issues.
"While these new restrictions provide new opportunities for developers, they also introduce new hazards. There is no getting around that. So we're doing everything we can to reduce those risks for everyone," Schiller told me during a recent talk about the implications of the European Commission's Digital Markets Act on privacy and security.
One of these risks is the possibility of users downloading malicious or unsafe apps, though Apple will notarize all apps using a combination of automated processes and a basic human review to prevent these apps from appearing on alternative app marketplaces to the greatest extent possible. Still, Apple has stated that notarization will not be as rigorous as its App Store review process and criteria, which developers must follow.
According to Schiller, another issue is that the software Store's tight standards against problematic content may not apply to rival software markets.
"We have dealt with a lot of input from families, from governments, on things that we need to do to try to either not allow certain kinds of objectionable content on our App Store, or give users control over that experience to decide what's best for themselves—and we have rules around that," Schiller said. "Those regulations will not apply in another marketplace unless they want to create their own rules, using whatever criteria they come up with. Does this enhance the likelihood of users and families seeing unpleasant content or other experiences? "Yes, it does."
Schiller's statements highlight many of the concerns that Apple described on its website
Alternative distribution, if not adequately managed, increases user and developer privacy, safety, and security issues. This includes the risks of installing software from unknown developers who do not meet Apple Developer Program requirements, installing software that compromises system integrity with malware or other malicious code, distributing pirated software, being exposed to illicit, objectionable, and harmful content due to lower content and moderation standards, and being more vulnerable to scams, fraud, and abuse. Apple has a limited ability to address these hazards and provide consumer help and refunds. Even with precautions, many of these hazards persist.
The complete interview may be found on Fast Company's website.
