The European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), enacted in March 2024, was designed to foster competition by compelling major tech companies, including Apple, to open their platforms to third-party developers. This legislation mandated significant changes to Apple’s iOS ecosystem, notably allowing developers to create web browsers with their own engines, a departure from the previous requirement to use Apple’s WebKit.
In an exclusive interview with 9to5Mac, Jona Bolin, Product Manager for Opera’s iOS browser, expressed that while the DMA has initiated positive changes, Apple’s implementation falls short of truly leveling the playing field.
Initial Impact of the DMA
Following the DMA’s enforcement, Apple introduced a browser choice screen in iOS 17.4, prompting European users to select their default web browser from a list that included Opera. This move led to a substantial increase in Opera’s user base. Between February and March 2024, Opera reported a 63% growth in new monthly users across Europe. France experienced the most significant surge with a 146% increase, followed by Germany at 57%, Spain at 50%, Poland at 45%, and Italy at 20%. Additionally, the number of users setting Opera as their default browser rose by 39% between March 3 and April 4, 2024. ([press.opera.com](https://press.opera.com/2024/04/10/opera-reports-surge-in-new-monthly-users-after-dma/?utm_source=openai))
Bolin acknowledged these developments, stating that Opera is quite satisfied with the final results regarding the default browser selection process. However, he emphasized that these changes are merely the beginning of what is necessary for genuine competition.
Challenges with Apple’s Implementation
Despite the initial successes, Bolin highlighted several challenges that persist due to Apple’s approach to DMA compliance. One significant issue is the requirement for third-party browsers to operate under Apple’s rules, which Bolin described as limiting. He noted, You have to play by their rules… It’s like Apple doesn’t trust you.
A critical point of contention is the allowance for custom browser engines. While the DMA permits browsers to use their own engines in the EU, Bolin pointed out that no major browser has released an EU-specific version with a custom engine. This reluctance stems from the complexities and risks associated with maintaining separate versions for different regions. Developers cannot automatically migrate users from the global version to the EU-specific one, necessitating separate development efforts and increasing costs. Bolin explained, They would also need to work on the two versions separately, which would make this a big risk and cost.
Furthermore, the continued reliance on WebKit restricts third-party browsers from implementing features not yet supported by Apple. This limitation hampers innovation and prevents browsers like Opera from offering unique functionalities that could enhance user experience.
Opera’s Call for Broader Reforms
In light of these challenges, Opera advocates for more comprehensive reforms to Apple’s iOS policies. Bolin argues that developers should be allowed to provide their own web engines globally, not just within the EU. He stated, When it comes to web browsers, I think we should be able to provide our own web engine in any country. Additionally, he suggests that Apple should permit multiple binaries, enabling users worldwide to choose browsers that best suit their needs.
Opera’s stance reflects a broader industry sentiment that while the DMA has initiated necessary changes, Apple’s current compliance measures are insufficient for fostering true competition. The company urges Apple to implement more inclusive policies that allow for greater innovation and user choice across all regions.
Conclusion
The implementation of the DMA has undeniably impacted the digital landscape, prompting companies like Apple to adjust their practices. However, as Opera’s experience illustrates, these changes are not yet adequate to create a truly competitive environment. For meaningful progress, further reforms are necessary to ensure that third-party developers can operate on equal footing, ultimately benefiting consumers through increased choice and innovation.
