iOS 18.2 brings even more changes for iPhone users in the European Union (EU). Soon, iPhone and iPad users will be able to delete pre-installed iOS apps like App Store and Safari.
Deleting some pre-installed Apple apps like Calculator, Calendar, Music, and Notes is already possible. However, with the iOS 18.2 beta version released to developers on Wednesday, Apple expands this list even further. Yet, this change is only relevant for EU users.
With the latest iOS beta, users in the EU can now delete App Store, Camera, Safari, Messages, and Photos apps. This change aligns with a provision of the DMA that requires tech companies to make it easier for users to remove apps of their choice. Apple confirmed in August that this option would arrive in a future iOS update. EU users can also download alternative app stores to replace the App Store. For those who want to return to the App Store, there's an option in the Settings app.
iOS 18.2 also includes a few changes for non-EU users. For instance, with this update, it will be possible to change default apps. Users will be able to set their preferred app as primary for email, messages, calls, web browsing, password management, and keyboard functions. Additionally, the iOS 18.2 update will introduce Siri-ChatGPT integration, Image Playground, Genmoji, and Apple Intelligence features like visual AI for iPhone 16 models. However, the AI features will be exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro and the new iPhone 16 series.
