Apple has decided to reverse its stance on blocking web apps, also known as Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), on iPhones within the EU. The company announced an update on its developer page, indicating that it will reintroduce support for PWAs in the upcoming public release of iOS 17.4, following numerous requests from users to support this functionality.
PWAs function similarly to native apps, allowing access to various device functionalities without consuming significant storage space. They can send notifications and maintain user sessions across services.
Last month, Apple downgraded PWAs to mere website shortcuts with the release of the second beta of iOS 17.4, as highlighted by security researcher Tommy Mysk and Open Web Advocacy. Citing security concerns such as the potential for malicious web apps to access data from other web apps and utilize device cameras, Apple initially ended support for homescreen apps, as stated on its developer page.
The company attributed its decision partly to compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which mandates openness in the browser ecosystem, permitting developers to choose an engine other than WebKit.
Apple acknowledged that PWAs had “very low user adoption,” implying minimal impact on users. Nevertheless, this move prompted regulatory scrutiny, leading to investigations initiated by regulators who sent inquiries to developers, as reported by the Financial Times. Additionally, the Open Web Advocacy group penned an open letter to Tim Cook, urging the lifting of the ban on web apps. This letter garnered support from numerous organizations and individuals, including Mastodon, internet advocate Cory Doctorow, and Vercel CTO Malte Ubl.