iOS 18.4 introduces a new default navigation app option, but only in Europe.

With the arrival of iOS 18.4, some users will have the option to set a default navigation app other than Apple Maps. This selection can be made through the Settings app, navigating to the Apps section, then to Default Apps, and finally to Navigation. This way, users will be able to choose apps like Google Maps or Waze to open automatically when requesting directions. This update seems quite useful and could be well-received by many iPhone owners, although not everyone will be able to benefit from it, as this default navigation option will only be available to users in the European Union.

This change was previously mentioned by the company as part of its broader response to the EU’s Digital Markets Act. In the United States, iPhone owners can also adjust certain preferences for default apps, although in a more limited manner. Currently, U.S. users have options to set default apps for email, messaging, calls, call filtering, browser, passwords, contactless payments, and keyboards. Additionally, with iOS 18.4, the option to choose a translation app as default has been added.

However, European users have the opportunity to make more significant choices related to the use of Apple devices. Among the most relevant is access to alternative app stores. Some features resulting from compliance with the Digital Markets Act have already been implemented in other markets, such as third-party access to near-field communication, enabling features like proximity payment. This variance in user experience is common due to differences in laws and regulations worldwide. It is observed that European users are obtaining an enhanced experience compared to the local Apple market, which seems to be turning into a more accepted strategy rather than merely exceptions.

iOS 18.4 is still in beta phase, and the final version is expected to be released in April.