Google Maps instead of Apple Maps: iOS allows new default app for navigation

More and more third -party apps can be defined as standard application under iOS. After browsers and recently also telephony and text messages, the topic of cards or navigation is now on. With that, Apple no longer has the upper hand, instead the desired app appears.

The first step was email and web

However, this is only implemented in the European Union – the Digital Markets Act (DMA) only allows its very wide regulatory options. However, it is not sufficient for Apple to release a category. Instead, the companies have to contact Apple. The responsible team must first release the inclusion in the default app’s menu, which can be found in the system settings. This has now worked on Google: Since the release of iOS 18.4 last Monday, users report that after installing the last Google Maps update there is a corresponding entry. “If you have several navigation apps, you can change the standard app,” says the menu.

Previously, WhatsApp had already ensured with an update at the end of March that it could become a default application in two categories-telephony and text messages. Other messaging services, such as signal, could also do so, but the technical implementation or Apple approval is still missing. In addition to browsers, telephony and text messages, email apps can also be selected. With iOS 18.4, navigation/maps and the area of ​​translations-where Apple’s own translate app is used by default-can be defined.

EU regulates detail

Interestingly, the area of ​​translations is also released in other regions, including in the USA. Why the Apple handles so is unclear. However, this should only be the beginning. The European Union has already presented Apple to what the group still has to open. It is not just about default apps, but also about the provision of developer interfaces. For example, smartwatches of alternative providers should have as many options as the Apple Watch.

Sometimes it happens that Apple takes the time to help manufacturers of alternative apps to be implemented. This week a German company had complained that wanted to get to the menu for email apps. Apple ignored it for several months, it said. In the meantime you are in conversation.