Apple Allows EU Users to Delete Core Apps Like App Store and Photos in iOS 18.2
Brook.X
In compliance with European Union legislation, Apple is further loosening restrictions on the deletion of built-in iOS applications. The latest update now permits the removal of several core apps, including the App Store, Photos, Messages, and the Safari browser.
The App Store is essential for downloading various applications, while Photos is used to view all captured images and saved pictures. Deleting these could potentially impact normal usage.
What if you delete the App Store? How would you reinstall it? Apple has addressed this concern by providing an option within Settings to restore the App Store without needing to reset the system or recover from a backup.
Once the Photos app and other system-built-in applications are deleted, they cannot be directly restored. Users would need to reinstall them through the App Store. Hence, to retrieve Photos, one must first restore the deleted App Store.
Apple specifically notes that deleting the App Store or Photos app won't affect existing data:
- After deleting the App Store: Installed apps will remain functional but cannot receive updates.
- After deleting the App Store: To redownload pre-installed apps like Albums, the App Store must be restored.
- After deleting the App Store: Users can still manage existing subscriptions through Settings, such as cancelling specific subscriptions.
- After deleting the Photos app: Previously taken photos and saved images will not be deleted.
- After deleting the Photos app: Generated memories and other content will become inaccessible.
- After deleting the Photos app: Photos set as hidden through the app will also become inaccessible.
According to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) requirements by the EU, tech companies must allow users to easily delete any undesired apps. In August, Apple confirmed that future iOS versions would support the deletion of built-in system apps, including core applications.
This regulation isn't just for fun; taking the App Store as an example, users can completely remove the App Store and opt for third-party alternatives, thus keeping only these alternatives. The EU's rationale is that this would foster a more competitive environment.
