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Will Sideloading Come to the UK?
Will Sideloading Come to the UK – With the passing of the Digital Markets Competition and Consumer (DMCC) Act in the UK earlier this year, many iPhone users and developers are asking: Will Apple introduce sideloading in the UK? This question arises as the DMCC Act bears similarities to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union, which has already pushed Apple towards supporting sideloading. In this post, we’ll explore the potential implications of the DMCC Act and what it could mean for sideloading apps in the UK.
What is the DMCC Act?
The DMCC Act is a new piece of legislation passed in the UK to promote fair competition in the digital marketplace. It aims to prevent large tech companies, such as Apple and Google, from limiting consumer choices and stifling competition. The act focuses on digital gatekeepers—companies that dominate their platforms—and may require them to loosen restrictions, such as allowing users to install apps from sources outside the official app stores (sideloading).
Sideloading in the EU: A Precedent
In the European Union, the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which is similar to the DMCC Act, has already pushed Apple to reconsider its strict policies against sideloading. Under the DMA, Apple will likely allow third-party app stores and sideloading options on iPhones and iPads in Europe by 2024. The rationale behind this is to promote consumer choice and open up more opportunities for developers. This move in the EU raises the question of whether the UK’s DMCC Act will bring about similar changes.
Will the DMCC Act Force Apple to Allow Sideloading in the UK?
As of now, Apple has not officially announced plans to allow sideloading in the UK, but the passing of the DMCC Act could change that. If the UK’s Digital Markets Unit (DMU), which enforces the act, follows the EU’s example and requires Apple to comply, sideloading may become a reality in the UK as early as 2024.
Apple has historically resisted sideloading due to security and privacy concerns, arguing that the closed ecosystem of the App Store protects users from malware and unsafe apps. However, regulatory pressure could force them to make similar concessions in the UK, just as they are preparing to do in Europe.
When Will We Know?
While the DMCC Act has received Royal Assent, its provisions are still being finalized, and enforcement by the DMU is expected sometime in 2024. The timeline for Apple’s response to these regulations is uncertain, but UK users can keep an eye on the situation as more details about the act’s enforcement become clear.
In conclusion, the DMCC Act has the potential to bring sideloading to the UK, much like the DMA has done in Europe. While nothing is confirmed yet, regulatory pressure may force Apple to reconsider its stance on sideloading, making 2024 an exciting year for UK iPhone users. Stay tuned for updates as the DMU finalizes its approach and Apple’s response takes shape.
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