MacPaw, a developer based in Ukraine, has announced the release of its alternative mobile app store Setapp Mobile. This release comes as a response to the new Digital Markets Act (DMA) rules in the EU. The app store has been in closed beta testing with select users for a few months and is now available for all users to try in open beta.
Setapp Mobile features over 50 productivity, finance, video, photo, and creativity apps from developers like MacPaw, offering apps such as CleanMyPhone, ClearVPN, Riveo video editor, and more. Users can access all these apps through a $9.99 monthly subscription with a seven-day trial period. To use Setapp Mobile, users need to have iOS 17.4 or later installed on their device and have an Apple ID associated with an EU member state.
MacPaw, one of the first companies to agree to Apple’s DMA agreement, is still refining its business model and user experience for Setapp Mobile. They have decided to release this initial version as an open beta and will incorporate user feedback for future enhancements.
The goal for Setapp Mobile is to maintain a balance between the number of applications available and the number of users to ensure a seamless experience for all. MacPaw aims to avoid overcrowding the store with apps to foster discovery for both users and developers.
MacPaw has a strong background in distributing Mac-focused apps through subscription tiers and now seeks to cater to iPhone users in the EU with Setapp Mobile. The company aims to leverage its expertise in desktop app distribution to the mobile space.
As Apple’s DMA implementation introduces the Core Technology Fee (CTF), MacPaw and other developers will need to navigate these new requirements. MacPaw is evaluating the impact of these fees on distributing their apps through various channels.
In addition to MacPaw, other app stores are entering the EU market, offering users different options and experiences. The challenge for these stores will be to attract and retain users across various categories over time.
