Apple continues to expand the customization options in iOS, and with version 18.4, in its first beta, it introduces the possibility of establishing new default app categories. Starting with this update, users will be able to choose which app to use as default for features of translation y gps navigation. This change follows the line of openings that the company has implemented in recent times, especially in compliance with the Digital Markets Law (LMD) in the European Union.
New default app categories in iOS 18.4
So far, Apple allowed you to choose default apps in sections such as email, Web navigator y keyboards, all thanks to the relentless regulations of the European Union, especially the Digital Markets Act. However, with iOS 18.4 users will be able to select which application they prefer for the functions of translation worldwide and for gps navigation in Europe.
This means that if a user prefers to use Google Translate or any other app instead of Apple's native translation app, you can set it as the default option from the system settings. Similarly, in the European Union it will now be possible to use Google Maps, Waze or other options instead of Apple Maps.
Compliance with the Digital Markets Act
This adjustment is not accidental, but rather responds to the regulations imposed by the Digital Markets Law (DMA) in the European Union, as we have said, which seeks to guarantee free competition in digital services. Apple had already made changes in iOS 18.2, allowing more customization options in default applications, and now it expands these possibilities even further.
The measure promises to give users more flexibility and prevent them from being forced to use Apple's native applications, thus facilitating the adoption of third-party alternatives according to their own preferences.
Other new features in iOS 18.4
In addition to the expansion of categories for default apps, iOS 18.4 includes Various improvements and new features that seek to improve the user experience on Apple's operating system.
Prioritised notifications
Thanks to Apple Intelligence, the system will now be able to Automatically highlight the most important notifications. This function classifies the notices based on the relevance for each user, facilitating information management and preventing crucial alerts from being lost amidst a large number of notifications.
New widgets for Podcasts
Apple has added new widgets for the Podcasts app, allowing users to more quickly access their favorite programs directly from the starting screen.
Image Playground Improvements
The AI image creation function, Image Playground, receives a new style called "Drawing", which allows to generate sketches based on text and selected graphic elements.
Additional settings in Apple Maps
Within adjustments of Apple Maps, there is now a new option that allows set preferred language for navigation, which will improve the experience for those who prefer to use a language other than the system language in the maps application.
iOS 18.4 Availability
The final version of iOS 18.4 is scheduled for release launch in April. However, users who wish to try out these new features before their official launch can access the Beta through Apple's testing program in Settings> General> Software updateIt is important to remember that, like any beta version, there may be errors and incompatibilities with some applications.
This update reinforces Apple's path towards greater openness in its ecosystem, allowing users to more freely define which applications they want to use as default in their daily lives. While some changes are limited to certain regions, like the selection of navigation apps in Europe, the trend towards offering greater customization in iOS seems to consolidate with each new version.