Apple starts testing ability to delete App Store for EU iPhone users

Apple has rolled out the first iOS 18.2 developer beta, and for European users, it’s offering something big: the ability to delete the App Store itself. This move is part of Apple’s compliance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to break down barriers that have long kept users stuck with pre-installed apps.

In iOS 18.2, iPhone users across the EU can wave goodbye to the App Store, Safari, Camera, and even Messages or Photos. Yes, you read that right. It’s not just about deleting the Calculator or Calendar anymore — those have been removable for a while. But now, Apple is going all in, letting European users take control of their devices in a way they’ve never been able to before. Want to delete Safari and replace it with your favorite browser? Go ahead. Fancy swapping out Messages for a third-party app? No problem.

But here’s the kicker: You can now delete the App Store itself on iOS 18.2 beta. It sounds wild, but it’s true. Thanks to the DMA’s requirements, which demand tech companies let users uninstall any app they choose, you’ll be able to download alternative marketplaces. Want to try a whole new way of getting apps? Feel free to explore something like AltStore or the B2B-focused Mobivention marketplace, the first Apple App Store alternatives to hit Europe earlier this year. And don’t worry if you have second thoughts about removing the App Store. A convenient restore button in Settings will bring it back without any drama.

While this freedom to delete is currently exclusive to EU users, iOS 18.2 beta comes with other treats for iPhone users worldwide. For instance, Apple’s making it easier to set default apps for things like email, messaging, calling, web browsing, and even your password manager or keyboard. So, if you’ve ever wished for a more personalized experience, this update has you covered.

Speaking of personalization, iOS 18.2 introduces some cutting-edge features for those rocking iPhone 16 models or newer. Meet Image Playground, Genmoji, and Apple’s Visual Intelligence. But perhaps the most exciting addition is the seamless ChatGPT integration, putting AI-powered answers right in the palm of your hand. You’ll be able to chat with AI, ask for suggestions, or get creative help without leaving the Apple ecosystem. It’s like Siri, but on steroids.

The iOS 18.2 beta is currently only available to developers with Apple Intelligence-compatible devices — think iPhone 15 Pro or newer and M1 iPads. But don’t worry, it’s set to hit other devices soon. If you’re not part of the developer circle, you’ll only have to wait a little longer, as Apple has suggested that the public release of iOS 18.2 will land by December.