iPhone users in the EU are set to receive another exclusive benefit with the release of iOS 18.4.
Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
The iOS 18.4 update is currently in beta and brings a new feature for EU users allowing them to select a default navigation app. This means that links will no longer open in Apple Maps for those who prefer Google Maps, although this option will not be available for U.S. users.
The Digital Markets Act of the EU is compelling Apple to implement several changes to its services, but not all benefits are making their way to the U.S. Apple has indicated its disagreement with many EU regulations, often making adjustments only when absolutely necessary.
Currently, this applies to the ability to select an alternative app marketplace and a different app for contactless payments. According to MacRumors, when iOS 18.4 is released, the option to set a default navigation app will be added to these changes.
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Nonetheless, not all of Apple's new Default Apps settings are exclusive to the EU. iOS 18 allows all users to modify their default browser app, calls app, email app, keyboards app, messages app, and passwords app. Additionally, with iOS 18.4, the global capability to set a default translation app will also be introduced.
For U.S. consumers, it's worth noting that there are some disadvantages to being an Apple user in the EU as well. For example, the rollout of Apple Intelligence features in Europe has been significantly delayed, and, most frustratingly, the iPhone Mirroring feature for macOS is still not available — something that has been eagerly awaited since its announcement a long time ago.
I check the iPhone Mirroring feature nearly every week — just in case — but I’m always left disappointed.
Willow Roberts / Digital Trends
Willow Roberts has worked as a Computing Writer at Digital Trends for a year and has over a decade of writing experience.
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iPhone users in the EU are set to receive another exclusive benefit with the release of iOS 18.4.
iOS 18.4 is on its way, and once released, iPhone users in the EU will have the option to select their preferred default navigation app.