In a bold move that's sure to delight travel agents across Europe, Apple has announced a new feature for iPhone users: the 'Vacation Mode'. This innovative function ensures that your iPhone will only update apps from third-party app stores if you're within the European Union. Planning a trip outside the EU? Better make it a quick one, because after 30 days, your iPhone will start giving you the silent treatment on updates.
"Think of it as a digital postcard from your apps," said an Apple spokesperson, "reminding you to come back and visit Europe. It's like a souvenir, but instead of a fridge magnet, it's your apps waving 'bonjour' from afar."
The new policy comes hot on the heels of the EU's Digital Markets Act, which had travelers worried they'd lose app features faster than their luggage at the airport. But fear not, globe-trotters! Apple's 30-day grace period is like a travel-sized bottle of app updates – just enough to keep you going until you're back in the EU's embrace.
Developers, too, are getting in on the fun. Mobivention is reportedly developing a 'Wish You Were Here' app collection, while MacPaw's Setapp store is curating a 'EuroTrip Essentials' bundle. Epic Games, however, seems to have missed the boarding call after Apple deemed them 'verifiably untrustworthy' – a status usually reserved for weather forecasts and tourist trap restaurants.
So, pack your bags, update your apps, and set your iPhones to 'Vacation Mode'. Because nothing says 'relaxing getaway' quite like a countdown to your next app update.