Why iOS Still Lacks WebKit-Free Browsers in 2025
Apple users in the EU have been asking the same question since the DMA (Digital Markets Act) kicked in over a year ago: where are the WebKit-free browsers on iOS? Despite the legal green light for third-party engines like Blink and Gecko, developers including Google and Mozilla have yet to release truly independent browsers for iPhone users. The main obstacle? Apple’s deeply entrenched technical and financial policies that, according to advocacy groups, make it practically impossible for competing browser engines to thrive on iOS.
Apple’s Restrictive Policies Keep WebKit in Control
Although Apple added support for non-WebKit browsers in iOS 17.4, the Open Web Advocacy (OWA) argues that these changes are more cosmetic than functional. Apple requires browser developers to build entirely new apps—just for the EU market—if they want to use their own rendering engines like Blink or Gecko. This wipes out existing user bases and forces developers to maintain multiple versions of the same browser, something most teams simply don’t have the resources to do. Testing tools are also limited outside the EU, creating another headache for global teams.
Browser Developers Speak Out on iOS Challenges
Mozilla has publicly criticized Apple’s implementation, calling it a burdensome process that hinders consumer choice. According to Mozilla spokesperson Damiano DeMonte, Apple’s restrictions effectively prevent viable alternatives to Safari by making it “as painful as possible” to develop them. This sentiment is echoed by other browser developers who see Apple’s compliance with the DMA as superficial. Without fair terms and technical support, the promise of true browser competition on iOS remains out of reach.
Why Apple Resists Third-Party Browser Engines on iOS
Open Web Advocacy believes Apple’s motivation is clear: financial gain. Safari’s integration with Google Search earns Apple over $20 billion annually, contributing up to 16% of its total operating profit. For every 1% drop in Safari’s market share, Apple stands to lose roughly $200 million. That creates a strong incentive to maintain Safari’s dominance by discouraging the adoption of third-party browser engines—even if it means walking a fine line with regulators.
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