The Digital Markets Act (DMA) has opened up new opportunities for users in the European Union to access alternative app stores, providing them with a wider range of options beyond Apple’s App Store. This new regulation aims to promote competition in the app ecosystem by allowing developers to distribute their apps through third-party marketplaces that adhere to certain platform integrity standards.
One of the alternative app marketplaces that have emerged in the EU is AltStore PAL, co-created by developer Riley Testut. This officially approved app store allows independent developers to showcase their apps alongside offerings from AltStore’s creators. Unlike Apple’s App Store, AltStore apps are self-hosted by developers, requiring users to add a “source” in order to access these apps. Some popular apps available on AltStore include UTM, OldOS, Kotoba, iTorrent, qBitControl, and PeopleDrop.
MacPaw’s Setapp has also embraced Apple’s new DMA business terms to introduce an alternative app store for EU users. Setapp Mobile offers a subscription-based service featuring a curated selection of apps that are free from in-app purchases or ads. While the app store does not include major names like Facebook or Netflix, it provides users with high-quality applications under a single recurring subscription price.
Epic Games launched its alternative iOS app store in the EU, enabling users to download games such as Fortnite, Rocket League Sideswipe, and Fall Guys. The company has expanded its presence to other alternative app stores like AltStore PAL and Aptoide’s iOS store, following its legal dispute with Apple over App Store policies. Epic’s move to create an alternative game store signifies a shift in the app distribution landscape.
Aptoide, known for its Google Play alternative, introduced an iOS version of its app store through an invite-only beta program. Users can access a wide range of apps on Aptoide, with the company taking a commission on in-app purchases to cover its operational costs. Aptoide’s commitment to providing a safe and diverse app ecosystem makes it a valuable addition to the alternative store landscape.
For companies in the EU looking to distribute internal apps to employees, the Mobivention marketplace offers a B2B-focused solution. This app store caters to organizations that need a dedicated platform for their corporate apps, providing customization options and licensing opportunities for larger enterprises. By offering specialized app distribution services, Mobivention fills a niche in the EU app marketplace.
As the DMA reshapes the app distribution landscape in the European Union, users now have the opportunity to explore a variety of alternative app stores beyond Apple’s ecosystem. Whether it’s through platforms like AltStore PAL, Setapp Mobile, Epic Games Store, Aptoide iOS Store, or the Mobivention Marketplace, developers and users alike can benefit from the increased competition and diversity of apps available in the EU market. By embracing these alternative app stores, both developers and users can contribute to a more vibrant and competitive app ecosystem in the EU.