Technology

Why Aren't We Seeing Alternative Browsers on iPhones?

2025-07-14

Author: Ken Lee

16 Months On: The Silence of iOS Browsers

It’s been a staggering 16 months since a landmark Digital Markets Act (DMA) ruling opened the gates for iOS developers like Google and Mozilla to utilize their own browser engines in the EU. So, the burning question remains: where are these alternative browsers?

Apple's Tight Grip on Competition

According to the Open Web Advocacy (OWA), a nonprofit group championing an open web, Apple is still imposing technical and financial shackles that stifle competition against its browser, Safari. These barriers manifest as a lack of adequate testing tools for developers outside the EU, legal restrictions that feel downright hostile, and a mandate requiring developers to build entirely new apps for integrating alternative engines. This misguided approach essentially wipes the slate clean for developers, forcing them to abandon their existing European user bases.

Mozilla Laments Restrictions: A Painful Process

Mozilla, known for its commitment to fostering an open internet, expressed its discontent to The Verge last year. Describing Apple’s restrictions as a burdensome hurdle for independent browser developers, spokesperson Damiano DeMonte stated, "This is yet another instance of Apple erecting barriers to thwart genuine competition on iOS." In a landscape dominated by Safari, it seems that alternatives must fight a steep uphill battle just to exist.

Is Apple Really Compliant?

In an attempt to comply with the DMA, Apple introduced support for non-WebKit browsers in iOS 17.4, but the OWA argues that these measures are more superficial than substantial, claiming that Apple is "not in effective compliance with the DMA." Their viewpoint emphasizes that restricting fair competition is crucial to maintaining Apple’s lucrative revenue stream.

The Financial Stakes: Apple’s Browser Revenue

What's at stake? A staggering $20 billion annually in search engine revenue from Google flows into Apple's coffers thanks to Safari, representing a significant 14-16% of Apple’s yearly operating profit. For every single percentage point of market share lost by Safari, Apple stands to lose a whopping $200 million.

A Bigger Picture: Global Pressure on Apple

Beyond the EU, UK regulators are also breathing down Apple’s neck, pushing the tech titan to allow the use of alternative browser engines on iOS. Following an investigation that revealed both Apple and Google are "holding back" mobile browser innovation, the pressure is mounting.

As the browser landscape continues to evolve, one can't help but wonder: when will consumers finally be given a real choice on their iPhones?