iOS 17.4 Is Here. How Does it Affect Casino Gaming?
March 2024 marked the arrival of iOS 17.4. While most Apple updates come and go without even registering for many, 17.4 has resulted in significant changes for iPhone users across Europe. This guide explores the changes made, as well as how this update has impacted the casino gaming experience.
What you can Expect with the New iOS 17.4 Changes
With iOS 17.4, numerous updates have arrived for iPhone and iPad users. Aside from worldwide additions like new emojis and a different battery health interface, many of these changes only impact those in the European Union. Why? It’s because Apple is complying with the new Digital Markets Act.
Here’s a breakdown of the main changes:
- Alternative app stores: EU developers can now distribute apps through alternative stores or Apple’s App Store under new terms. A new fee of €0.50 per user per year is applied, with alternative store distributions commission-free. Apple’s App Store offers reduced commissions. Users can set alternative app stores as default.
- Enhanced security: Apple’s update introduces security alerts for malware in apps from alternative stores, as well as improved parental controls for app installations.
- Alternative payment options: Apple now allows alternative payment methods within apps, reducing App Store fees by 3% for these options. Developers using alternative platforms and payment methods only pay a nominal fee per user, offering more financial flexibility and control.
- Third-party browser updates: iOS 17.4 allows users to select their default browser and introduces support for non-WebKit browser engines. As well as promoting user choice, this update enhances browser performance and diversity on iOS devices.
- NFC access expansion: The latest iOS update enables third-party payment apps and banks in the European Economic Area to use the iPhone’s NFC chip for contactless payments, bypassing Apple Pay. Users can also set default contactless payment providers, which increases payment options and convenience.
- Reversal on Web App restrictions: Following user feedback, Apple has rescinded its initial restrictions on Progressive Web Apps in the EU. Web Apps require the WebKit engine, but users retain more flexibility and functionality on their home screens.
These changes could significantly influence the casino gaming industry.
With the ability to use alternative app stores, for instance, online casinos could reach a broader audience outside the traditional Apple App Store. This can be particularly beneficial for those previously limited by Apple’s stricter app store policies regarding gambling content. Furthermore, the introduction of alternative payment options allows casinos to bypass Apple’s in-app purchase system, which can potentially reduce transaction costs and offer more payment flexibility to users.
How Do Mobile Casinos get along with iOS 17.4
With the rollout of iOS 17.4, the mobile casino playing experience on Apple devices has seen notable enhancements in certain areas. Perhaps most notably is improved browser performance for web-based casinos. Thanks to the allowance of non-WebKit browser engines, it generally delivers smoother and more responsive gameplay.
This was what we experienced when testing out different games across online casinos. We felt more demanding titles – think high-tech slots with advanced graphics and features – performed noticeably better through browsers. The gameplay also maintained the same quality and smoothness when played through dedicated casino apps.
Besides playing games, enhanced security features in iOS 17.4 bring an added layer of protection. The introduction of alternative payment options also simplifies transactions. These updates, as a whole, elevate the overall quality and accessibility of casino gaming on iOS devices.
Sun Vegas Casino – A Winning Experience!
As one of our highest-rated mobile casinos, we were eager to see how Sun Vegas Casino performed following the iOS 17.4 update. The good news is that the experience is just as seamless as you’d expect.!!
We felt that playing through the mobile browser was noticeably smoother. Due to improved third-party browser support, gameplay on Safari and other browsers is enhanced – whether spinning the slot reels or playing an exclusive Sun Vegas live dealer game.
More importantly, it hasn’t caused the gaming experience to regress. Sun Vegas Casino was already a top performer in terms of gameplay experience, and that remains the case with iOS 17.4. Quick to browse, easy to jump into games, no noticeable slowdown – it’s all as you would expect from this online casino.
We Love the New iOS 17.4 Update!
The iOS 17.4 update has helped to improve the mobile casino gaming experience on Apple devices. Greater access to games, improved performance, and enhanced security – whether playing on an iPhone or iPad, you can look forward to a more enjoyable, diverse gaming environment.
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