Discover the Rising Alternative App Stores in the EU: A Shift Beyond Apple

The introduction of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union has opened the door for users to explore alternative app stores. This new regulation aims to enhance competition within the app ecosystem, providing iPhone users in the EU with exciting opportunities to access apps beyond Apple’s App Store. With the DMA, developers can distribute their apps through various third-party marketplaces, ensuring a broader selection for consumers.

Understanding the Digital Markets Act (DMA)

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) allows alternative app marketplaces to flourish by enabling developers to bypass Apple’s traditional app review process. Instead, these third-party app stores must adhere to a notarization process that guarantees a baseline of platform integrity standards, such as being free from malware. Notably, each app store can establish its own review and approval policies, taking responsibility for app support and refunds rather than relying on Apple.

Requirements for Alternative App Marketplaces

To operate an alternative app store in the EU, developers need to accept Apple’s alternative business terms for DMA-compliant apps. This includes:

• Core Technology Fee: A fee of €0.50 for each first annual installation of their marketplace app, applicable even before reaching 1 million installs.

Despite the complexities of these new rules, several developers are leveraging this opportunity to distribute their apps outside Apple’s ecosystem.

Top Alternative App Stores for iPhone Users in the EU

Here’s a list of some notable alternative app stores available for iPhone users in the EU.

1. AltStore PAL

Co-founded by developer Riley Testut, the AltStore PAL is an officially approved alternative app marketplace in the EU. This open-source app store allows independent developers to share their apps alongside popular offerings like the Nintendo game emulator Delta and the clipboard manager Clip.

Key features of AltStore include:

• Self-hosted apps by developers
• Users can access only the apps they have added

Popular apps available include UTM, OldOS, Kotoba, iTorrent, and qBitControl.

2. Setapp Mobile

MacPaw’s Setapp is one of the pioneers in adhering to Apple’s new DMA terms, launching Setapp Mobile for EU users. This subscription-based service provides access to a variety of curated apps, free from in-app purchases and ads.

Subscription details include:

• Free access for “Power User” and “AI Expert” Setapp plans
• New “iOS Advanced” plan at $9.99/€9.49 monthly or $107.88/€102.48 yearly

Setapp Mobile is currently available in a beta phase for select subscribers.

3. Epic Games Store

Epic Games launched its alternative iOS app store in the EU on August 16, featuring popular games such as Fortnite, Rocket League Sideswipe, and Fall Guys. This launch follows a long-standing legal battle with Apple over App Store policies.

4. Aptoide

Based in Lisbon, Aptoide is an open-source game store for iPhone users, known for its safety measures in app distribution. The iOS version is currently in an invite-only beta phase, requiring users to join a waitlist for access.

Aptoide offers:

• 1 million apps across all platforms
• 10%-20% commission on in-app purchases

5. Mobivention Marketplace

The Mobivention marketplace focuses on B2B app distribution, enabling EU companies to share internal apps safely. The company also provides customized app marketplace solutions for organizations.

6. Skich

Skich recently introduced an alternative app store featuring a unique Tinder-like interface for app discovery. Users can swipe to “match” with apps and create playlists based on their interests.

With these innovative alternative app stores emerging in the EU, users have more choices than ever for accessing apps that suit their needs. Explore these options and discover a world beyond the Apple App Store!

For more information about the Digital Markets Act, visit the European Commission’s official page.