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It wasn't so long ago that Apple smartphone owners rejoiced at the possibility of placing web applications on the desktop of their iPhones. Company Apple but not long after that, she decided to quietly take a rather controversial step, which, of course, did not escape the attention of the European Commission.

After the second edition beta operating system version iOS 17.4 it became known that the company Apple limited functionality web applications in EU countries. Web apps can no longer be launched from the home screen in their own top-level window that takes up the entire screen, and are relegated to a simple shortcut with the option to open them in a browser instead SafariCritics say the move undermines the role of web apps as a viable alternative to native apps on the system. iOS.

EU competition regulators sent questions to developers last week to gauge the impact of the change, which is apparently seen as a prelude to an in-depth probe. The European Commission confirmed its inspection to Fin.ancial Times: “We're really looking at compliance packages for everyone, including the company Apple. In this context, we deal in particular with the issue of progressive web applications and can confirm the sending of requests for information to the company Apple and application developers who may provide us with useful information for our assessment.”

Company Apple tvred that the change in the functioning of web applications in the system iOS had to make to comply with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA), arguing that third-party browsers used with web apps in Europe could expose users to illegal security and privacy risks. It believes the changes will only affect a small number of users. A potential review of web apps could come on March 6, after the company has a deadline to Apple meet the requirements of the DMA Act, but formal proceedings could be avoided if the company Apple will make further concessions.

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