Among the many announcements regarding the new iOS 14 operating system , there was also one that could have dramatic consequences – but Apple (Apple) treated it abruptly. In a slide show for a few seconds and designed to summarize all operating system innovations, the message “Default Mail and Browser App Default” also appeared. Company members did not address this point at all during the event, but of course some viewers were able to spot the slide and spread the gospel.
In the absence of further detail from Apple, all that remains is to conclude that on iOS 14 and the iPad OS, users who want it can finally determine that web site links will open in their browser of choice, and also select an e-mail app that will launch automatically with a click of a mail address or voice command.
There are already many alternatives on iOS for Apple apps today, but so far they haven’t been able to set them by default, so even after installing the Chrome browser, for example, links received in messages would still open through Safari. E-mail apps are also lacking, with many – notably Gmail and Outlook – boasting a variety of features and much more advanced interface than the basic Mail app. Now they can be set by default, and uninstall the Apple app.
What caused this significant change in company policy? It is quite possible that this is the company’s response to allegations of unfair and anticompetitive behaviors voiced by app developers, led by Spotify, which is also promoting an investigation against Apple in the EU .
