The Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union now permits access to alternative app stores, promoting competition in the app ecosystem. Unlike Apple’s App Store, these alternative app marketplaces require apps to pass a notarization process to ensure they meet platform integrity standards, such as being malware-free. Each store has its own review policies and handles support and refunds independently.
Developers running alternative app marketplaces in the EU must adhere to Apple’s business terms for DMA-compliant apps, including paying a Core Technology Fee for each first annual install. Despite the complexities, some developers are embracing the chance to distribute apps beyond Apple’s platform.
Here are a few alternative app stores for iPhone users in the EU:
AltStore PAL
AltStore PAL, co-developed by Riley Testut, offers an officially approved alternative app marketplace in the EU. It allows independent developers to distribute their apps alongside others. Unlike the App Store, AltStore apps are self-hosted by developers, ensuring users only see apps they’ve added themselves.
Some popular apps on AltStore include UTM, OldOS, Kotoba, iTorrent, qBitControl, and PeopleDrop.
Setapp Mobile
Setapp Mobile, an alternative app store for iOS users in the EU, offers curated apps under a subscription model. It excludes major apps like Facebook and Netflix and is available through different subscription plans.
Users can try Setapp Mobile for free during the beta period.
Epic Games Store
Epic Games launched its iOS app store in the EU, enabling users to download games like Fortnite and Rocket League Sideswipe. The store supports other alternative app marketplaces and offers a selection of games.
This move follows Epic’s legal dispute with Apple over App Store policies.
Aptoide
Aptoide, an open-source app store, offers a safe solution for app distribution in the EU. Users can access a variety of apps for free with no additional charges.
Aptoide’s store is available on various platforms, providing over 1 million apps to millions of users.
Mobivention Marketplace
Mobivention Marketplace caters to businesses in the EU, offering a platform to distribute internal apps, especially those that can’t be published on the App Store. Companies can also obtain a customized app marketplace for their corporate apps.
