Oliver Haslam·

Developer Requirements For Default Third-Party iOS / iPadOS Browser, Email Apps Shared By Apple

Alongside the announcement of iOS 14 and iPadOS 14, Apple confirmed that we will finally get the ability to select a default email and web browser other than Apple’s Mail and Safari. That’s something users have been crying out for in recent years, and it’s finally coming.

Now, Apple has also told developers what they need their apps to do if they want to be part of the new feature.

According to Apple’s new documentation, a browser must provide a text field for entering a URL as well as search tools or a list of bookmarks. Browsers must also direct users straight to a website rather than any other location, too.

The app must navigate directly to the specified destination and render the expected web content. Apps that redirect to unexpected locations or render content not specified in the destination’s source code don’t meet the requirements of a default web browser.

Browsers must also present a warning for content that’s suspicious, too.

As for email apps, there are similar requirements in place. Email apps must be able to send a message to any email recipient as well as receive any email from any messages. Apps like Hey are fine, too, with Apple saying that mail screening is allowed.

Be able to receive a message from any email sender. Apps that provide user-controlled incoming mail screening features are permitted.

While iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 will support the changing of default apps, developers must enable the feature in their own apps for it to work. Apple seems set to make sure that these new criteria are met during app review, too.

Apple will likely release iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 to developers in September following a lengthy beta program.

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