Exploring Alternative App Stores in the European Union

Exploring Alternative App Stores in the European Union

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) has recently been implemented in the European Union, allowing people to access alternative app stores in addition to Apple’s App Store. This new regulation aims to promote competition within the app ecosystem, providing users with a wider range of app options. Unlike Apple’s App Store, apps on these alternative marketplaces must undergo a notarization process to ensure they meet specific platform integrity standards, such as being free of malware. Developers looking to run alternative app marketplaces must adhere to Apple’s business terms for DMA-compliant apps in the EU, including paying a Core Technology Fee. Despite the complex nature of these new rules, developers have begun taking advantage of this opportunity to distribute their apps independently.

AltStore PAL

AltStore PAL, developed by Riley Testut, is an officially approved alternative app marketplace in the EU. Independent developers can use this open-source platform to distribute their apps alongside those from AltStore’s creators. Unlike Apple’s App Store, AltStore apps are self-hosted by the developer, requiring them to upload an alternative distribution packet (ADP) to their server. Users can then add a “source” to AltStore to access these apps, ensuring that only apps they have added themselves will appear in the marketplace. Popular apps available on AltStore include UTM, OldOS, Kotoba, iTorrent, qBitControl, and PeopleDrop.

Setapp, a subscription-based service offering curated apps for iOS and Mac users, has agreed to Apple’s new DMA terms to launch an alternative app store for EU customers. Setapp Mobile, available exclusively to iOS users in the EU, presents a selection of high-quality apps free from in-app purchases or ads. While the store does not include major apps like Facebook or Netflix, it offers a variety of apps under a single subscription price. Users on specific Setapp subscription plans can access Setapp Mobile for free, while others can sign up for an “iOS Advanced” plan at a monthly or yearly rate. Additionally, all Setapp subscribers (excluding “Family” and “Teams”) have the opportunity to try Setapp Mobile during the invite-only beta period.

Epic Games Store

Epic Games, known for its popular title Fortnite, has introduced its alternative iOS app store in the EU, allowing users to download games like Fortnite, Rocket League Sideswipe, and Fall Guys. The company has also expanded its presence to other alternative app stores, including AltStore PAL and Aptoide’s iOS store in the EU, as well as ONE Store on Android. This move follows Epic Games’ legal challenge against Apple’s alleged App Store monopoly, resulting in developers being able to link to their own websites for reduced commission fees. The launch of Fortnite in the alternative iOS marketplace marks a significant step for Epic Games in diversifying its distribution channels.

Aptoide, a Lisbon-based open-source app distribution platform, has introduced its iOS version as an invite-only beta. This Google Play alternative scans apps for safety before making them available for download. Aptoide does not charge users for the Core Technology Fee associated with Apple, but does take a commission on in-app purchases. With over 430 million users across various platforms, including Android, web, and TV, Aptoide offers a diverse selection of apps available for download.

Mobivention Marketplace is a business-to-business (B2B) focused app store that enables EU companies to distribute internal apps to employees. This platform caters to businesses looking to offer customized app marketplaces for corporate apps that may not be suitable for the Apple App Store. Companies can license Mobivention’s technology to tailor the app marketplace to their specific requirements.

The implementation of the Digital Markets Act has opened up new opportunities for developers and users within the EU app ecosystem. Alternative app stores like AltStore PAL, Setapp Mobile, Epic Games Store, Aptoide, and Mobivention Marketplace are expanding the app distribution landscape, offering users a wider array of apps to choose from. As the app market continues to evolve, these alternative app stores provide a platform for innovation and competition in the EU.

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