Many iPhone users are only just realising what happens if you delete the Apple App Store.
If you're phone's running low on storage space, many of us to end up deleting old apps or duplicate photos to clear up some space. But turns out, it's entirely possible to delete the actual App Store on Apple devices.
One Reddit user sorely found out and asked the question: "How do you download back AppStore if you deleted it?" This caused a flood of users to enter the comment section with their own mix of jokes like: "Go to the App Store Store," whilst others were more surprised: "How did you even get a delete option on your App Store?"
While some users insisted that the App Store can’t be deleted, that’s not entirely true - at least not for people in the UK and other EU countries.
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So, why have Apple made this a thing?
Well, the option to remove certain default Apple apps is part of new rules introduced under the EU's Digital Markets Act. Apple quietly enforced the rule at the end of 2024 to allow iPhone and iPad owners to delete Messages, Photos, Camera, Safari and the App Store. According to Forbes, the change was to make the tech giant 'compliant with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act and create more competition in the mobile ecosystem.'
It seems, currently, the option is only available to those in the UK and other EU countries.
“By the end of this year [2024], we’ll make changes to the browser choice screen, default apps, and app deletion for iOS and iPadOS for users in the EU,” Apple announced quietly in a developer update. “These updates come from our ongoing and continuing dialogue with the European Commission about compliance with the Digital Market Act’s requirements in these areas.”
Thankfully, there's a way to restore the app if you accidentally deleted it. One helpful tech person on Reddit pointed out: "If you want to download or update any apps from the App Store on your iPhone or iPad, the App Store is required.
"You can also go to Settings > Apps > App Installation, then tap Reinstall App Store at the bottom of the page."
Additionally, Apple stated on its official support website: "If the App Store is missing on your device, you may have Content & Privacy Restrictions turned on.
"Adjust your iTunes & App Store Purchases settings and make sure you choose “Allow” for the Installing Apps setting. The App Store should reappear on your device. The company added: "If you still can’t find the App Store, swipe down to search for it with Spotlight."