End of the AppStore monopoly, what “dangers” for users?

The iPhone ecosystem is about to be disrupted like never before since the launch of the App Store in 2008. Apple recently communicated the changes that will arrive in the iOS 17.4 update scheduled for next March, in order to comply with European legislation which requires greater openness to avoid anti-competitive abuses.

Soon, alternative application stores to the App Store on iPhone/iPad££££

In summary, the App Store will no longer be the only way to download applications, and other companies will be able to install their online store on iPhone and iPad, something previously unthinkable. Apple has always highlighted user security to justify this lack of openness. So what are the dangers to which this novelty will expose them? Start of response in an interview conducted by FastCompany with Phil Schiller, former marketing chief and current president of the App Store.

The floor to Phil Schiller, president of the AppPhil SchillerStore££££

“We have covered a lot of input from families and governments on what actions we need to take to either avoid certain types of objectionable content on our App Store or give users control of their experience to decide what's best for them, and we have rules about it, explains Schiller. These rules will not apply in another store, unless they choose to establish their own rules, with the criteria they have defined. Does this increase the risk that users and families will encounter objectionable content or other experiences? Yes. He added: If not managed properly, alternative distributions present increased privacy, security, and safety risks for users and developers. This includes risks related to installing software from unknown developers that are not subject to Apple Developer Program requirements, installing software that compromises system integrity with malware or other code malware, distribution of counterfeit software, exposure to illegal, objectionable and dangerous content due to lower content and moderation standards, as well as increased risks of scams, fraud and abuse. Apple has less capacity to address these risks, to support and reimburse customers in the event of problems related to these issues. Even with protective measures, many of these risks persist.”