U.S. bills that would require major changes to the App Store would ultimately cause consumers to be targeted with malware, ransomware, and scams, Apple’s Senior Director of Government Affairs Timothy Powderly said in a letter that was sent [Tuesday] to the Senate Judiciary Committee and that was obtained by MacRumors.Apple sent the letter as the Judiciary Committee prepares to consider the American Innovation and Choice Online Act and the Open Markets Act, which were first introduced in June 2021. The American Innovation and Choice Online Act will be examined first, and if implemented, would prevent “dominant platforms” from “abusing their gatekeeper power” by favoring their own products and services over those of competitors.

[Sideloading was an issue in Cary-based Epic Games’ antitrust suit against Apple last year.]

In short, the legislation would enable sideloading, which Apple is stringently against. Sideloading would allow apps and content to be installed on iPhones and iPads through alternate app stores, bypassing Apple’s App Store and the privacy measures that Apple has put in place.

For the full story, read online at MacRumors.com:

https://www.macrumors.com/2022/01/18/apple-sideloading-bills-consumers-malware/

More MacRumors headlines

MacRumors: Apple eyes larger 5.7″ display for iPhone SE

Apple to pay employees nearly $30M to settle bag search lawsuit

Apple targets smash-and-grab robberies with new security measures