Last year, Apple introduced the ability for third-party web browsers to add web apps to the iOS home screen, a feature previously reserved for Safari. However, these web applications still relied on Apple’s WebKit engine. With iOS 18.2, the company brings a significant change, but only for Europeans. The iPhone’s mobile operating system is becoming a real headache for Apple developers and users.
A custom engine for web apps
In the first beta of iOS 18.2, Apple introduced a new API SFAddToHomeScreenInfo allowing third-party browsers to add web apps to the iPhone home screen using their own engine. This means that web applications will run entirely on the same engine as the browser that added them, providing a more integrated experience.
However, there is a limitation: this new API is currently only available for browsers distributed in the EU. Outside the EU, Apple still requires all web browsers on iPhone and iPad to use Safari’s WebKit engine.
Interestingly, Apple had considered completely removing support for web apps on the home screen in the EU. However, after the European Commission announced that it would investigate such a decision, Apple decided to maintain support for web apps here.
New import/export option in Safari settings
In Safari settings, iOS 18.2 offers a new section for managing website data and history, with import and export options. This section also includes the existing “Clear Website History and Data” tool for easier management. Enough to switch to a competing browser without losing all your habits.
Other key features in iOS 18.2
In addition to updates for browsers and web apps, iOS 18.2 introduces new Apple Intelligence features, such as Image Playground, Genmoji, ChatGPT integration, and visual search for iPhone 16 models. forget the possibility of deleting native applications like the App Store or Photos.
Currently, the iOS 18.2 beta is only available for Apple Intelligence-enabled devices, including iPhone 15 Pro and later, and iPads with the M1 chip or newer. The update is expected to roll out to more devices in the future, with a public release planned for December, according to Apple’s previous statements.
