Apple is set to allow iPhone users in the European Union (EU) to set default navigation and translation apps starting in spring 2025, according to a recent compliance document. The new feature will be added in iOS 18.4 and iPadOS 18.4, which are expected to be released in April.
Users in the EU will be able to choose from popular options such as Google Maps, Waze, or other alternatives to Apple’s default navigation app, Apple Maps. Similarly, they can select from translation apps like Google Translate, Microsoft Translator, or other options instead of Apple’s built-in Translate app.
This change comes after Apple had previously announced that users in the EU would be able to set default navigation and translation apps, but did not provide a specific timeframe for implementation until now. As of iOS 18.2 beta, iPhone users in the EU can already set a default browser app, mail app, and other options.
The European Commission has also released a statement announcing its assessment of Apple’s compliance with the Digital Markets Act, which regulates digital markets in the EU. Apple’s compliance document was made public alongside the Commission’s announcement.
Source: https://www.macrumors.com/2024/11/04/ios-18-4-default-maps-translate-apps-in-eu