Apple's Phil Schiller Warns Of Privacy Threats From New EU App Stores: 'There's No Getting Around That'

Apple Inc. AAPL veteran Phil Schiller has echoed the sentiments of CEO Tim Cook, saying that the "Alternative App Store" proposal in the European Union will compromise the security of iPhones and their users.

What Happened: While the European Union's Digital Markets Act is aimed at promoting competition in the technology sector by compelling Big Tech companies to open up their platforms, Schiller told Fast Company in an interview that this will lead to security compromises.

While the DMA is primarily business-oriented, it is anticipated to benefit consumers by providing more app download options.

However, Schiller, who oversees Apple’s App Store, warns that the advent of alternative app stores could render iPhone users in the EU more susceptible to privacy and security threats.

See Also: Apple’s Alternative App Store Model In The EU Could Potentially Cost Meta, Others ‘Millions’ Of Dollars In Yearly Payments To The iPhone-Maker

"These new regulations, while they bring new options for developers, also bring new risks. There's no getting around that. So we're doing everything we can to minimize those risks for everyone," Schiller stated.

Despite these apprehensions, Apple is implementing measures to reduce risks for users who download apps from alternative app stores.

These include a notarization process for all iPhone apps, irrespective of the app store they are sourced from. Developers must submit their app to Apple for scanning for malicious code and malware before it can be installed on the device.

However, Schiller notes that despite these new security measures, Apple’s protections for users who permit alternative app marketplaces on their iPhones are limited.

In addition to this, apps purchased through alternative app stores won’t be able to utilize some family-friendly iPhone features, such as Family Purchase Sharing and Ask to Buy.

Why It Matters: Schiller's comments come after Cook’s underscored the potential compromise of privacy, security, and usability due to the DMA’s regulations. Cook had confirmed significant revisions to Apple’s European App Store operations, including introducing alternative billing opportunities and marketplaces.

Apple’s proposal has faced backlash from industry leaders like Meta Platforms Inc.'s META CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who criticized the proposal and suggested that Meta won’t opt for it.

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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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