The European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) is challenging Apple’s dominance over the App Store ecosystem for iPhone apps by requiring the tech giant to open up to new rivals. This shift is leading to the emergence of alternative app store ecosystems where developers can compete with the default iPhone App Store.
One such example is the AltStore, an innovative alternative app store that is leveraging the DMA to launch an updated version of its app marketplace in the EU. The AltStore plans to support Patreon-backed apps as part of its new offerings.
To comply with the DMA regulations, Apple is introducing APIs and frameworks that enable developers to distribute apps independently of the App Store. The AltStore quickly embraced this opportunity, with developer Riley Testut recently unveiling screenshots of the upcoming EU version of the app store.
Instead of relying solely on traditional methods of monetization like ads, paid downloads, or in-app purchases, the AltStore will provide developers with a custom Patreon integration to market their apps directly to consumers.
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The AltStore, known for offering sideloaded apps like the video game emulator Delta, will initially launch in the EU with two apps — Delta for free and the AltStore’s clipboard manager Clip requiring a Patreon pledge of $1 or more. Beta versions of both apps will follow, with a $3 per month Patreon pledge needed for access.
This unique monetization model is reminiscent of Apple’s in-app subscriptions but without the typical commission fees. The AltStore plans to operate under the DMA guidelines, allowing alternative app stores the option to pay a Core Technology Fee for larger apps beyond a certain threshold.
Testut envisions the AltStore becoming a platform for other developers to distribute their apps, leveraging the same Patreon integration for ‘paid’ apps. This approach opens up new revenue possibilities that were previously restricted under Apple’s regulations.
According to iOS developer Steve Troughton-Smith, the AltStore’s Patreon integration enables a more personalized relationship with users and a different approach to app monetization compared to Apple’s model.
Testut promises that the EU version of the AltStore will offer a simplified user experience compared to the current version, eliminating the complex steps required to sideload apps without jailbreaking iPhones.
The AltStore’s user interface resembles a modern app store, with categories and download buttons similar to Apple’s App Store, albeit with some differences due to Apple’s requirements for additional confirmation screens and notarization of apps.
The new AltStore is poised for launch pending final approval from Apple, marking a significant milestone in the evolving landscape of app distribution and monetization in the EU.
