Opera browser: Apple's DMA changes are not enough
In the EU, Apple has to release its iOS and iPadOS platforms much more than before. However, this does not go far enough for the browser provider Opera.
Icons of various Internet browsers on the iPhone.
(Image: Primakov/Shutterstock.com)
The Norwegian-Chinese browser manufacturer Opera sees problems in Apple's implementation of the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA). The product manager responsible, Jona Bolin, is particularly bothered by the fact that none of the major providers of surfing tools have started to build a browser with their engine – even though this is now officially permitted. According to Bolin, nobody implements a custom engine because Apple separates the markets.
For example, the custom engine is only permitted within the European Union, but not in other markets. It is also not possible to automatically migrate users of the “global” version, who are forced to use Apple's WebKit, to the custom engine in the EU. This means that manufacturers have to maintain two browser versions – and persuade users to use the “correct” one.
Switching not easy, double development expensive
As the Opera product manager told the Apple blog 9to5Mac, there are “many other” restrictions under iOS in addition to the engine issue. “You have to play by Apple's rules. You have to play by them. But that also restricts you in a certain way. It's as if Apple doesn't trust you.” Two versions of the Opera browser are “a big risk and cause high costs”. The compulsion to use WebKit means that functions that WebKit does not have cannot be introduced.
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Apple must allow its engine for browser companies “in every country”, not just in the EU. Alternatively, it should be possible to deliver several binaries at the same time. “If you are in Sweden or Portugal, you should download them and choose the browser that has the custom engine instead of the system one.”
Default app changes possible
At least Opera and co. now have an easier time becoming the default browser on iOS. Apple has made it possible to set alternative web applications, and this is now also possible for telephony, text messages, translations and more.
However, Apple has its finger on the pulse here too: the company must approve apps accordingly before they are included in the selection. It is also possible to set up default apps outside of Europe, but there is only a “Browser Choice Screen” in the EU and navigation and NFC apps from third-party providers can only be made standard in certain regions.
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