Tech

Apple opens door to third-party app stores in move to appease EU regulators

The sweeping changes — coming in March — are a direct response to the EU’s new Digital Markets Act

Apple executives cautioned on Thursday that the changes do threaten to undercut the company’s long-held emphasis on user security.

Appleis overhauling its iOS, Safari and App Store offerings in the European Union, in a bid to placate regulators set to impose tough new antitrust rules.

The revamp will allow customers to download software from outside the App Store for the first time, the company said. They’ll also be able to use alternative payment systems and more easily choose a new default web browser — addressing two frequent complaints of developers and lawmakers.

The sweeping ...