Apple has decided to reverse its previous decision to no longer offer web apps for European users. This change is set to take place in the upcoming final version of iOS 17.4, expected to be released later this month. Progressive web apps (PWAs) will once again be compatible with WebKit technology. Apple made the announcement in an update on a support document, stating that they are reversing their initial decision.
The tech giant had previously announced in February that it would stop supporting PWAs for iOS users in the European Union, citing compliance with the Digital Markets Act as the reason. At that time, Apple claimed that a new integration architecture would be needed to display full-screen web pages as apps. However, it was later discovered that Apple had stopped supporting PWAs, also known as Home Screen web apps, since iOS 17.4.
Now, Apple is retracting this decision. In a statement, Apple mentioned, "We have received requests to continue supporting Home Screen web apps on iOS." The company did not specify if these requests originated from users or European policymakers. Despite Apple's assertion that PWAs are infrequently used, they have decided to permit Home Screen web apps in the European Union.
Apple has confirmed that PWAs will once again be compatible with WebKit technology. This support will be reintegrated in the final version of iOS 17.4, which is currently in beta testing and slated for an early March release.
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