Since Apple introduced the App Store in 2008, it has tightly controlled the apps and services allowed on iPhones and iPads, giving the company an iron grip on one of the digital economy’s most valuable storefronts.
Now Apple is weakening its hold on the store, in one of the most consequential signs to date of how new European regulations are changing consumer technology.
To comply with a European Union competition law taking effect on March 7, Apple on Thursday announced major changes to the App Store and other services for consumers in Europe.
In Europe, customers will now have access to competing app stores and other services.
In the United States, where there are fewer laws and regulations, Apple and other tech giants have more flexibility to operate as they please.
Organizations:
Apple, European Union
Locations:
Europe, China, United States