AltStore: Pioneering a New App Ecosystem in the EU
The European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) is set to revolutionize the app store landscape by challenging Apple’s dominance and fostering competition. As a result, alternative app stores like the AltStore are gearing up to seize this opportunity and offer developers innovative ways to distribute and monetize their apps in the EU.
Embracing the DMA’s Potential
With Apple introducing APIs and frameworks to comply with the DMA, the AltStore is preparing to launch an updated version of its app marketplace in the EU. Developer Riley Testut recently shared a glimpse of what users can expect from this upcoming iteration, which will initially feature two apps: the video game emulator Delta and the clipboard manager Clip.
A Fresh Approach to App Monetization
The AltStore’s unique selling point lies in its custom Patreon integration, allowing developers to market their apps directly to consumers. Instead of relying solely on ads, paid downloads, or in-app purchases, developers can offer their apps based on users’ Patreon pledges. For instance, Delta will be available for free, while Clip will require a $1 monthly pledge on Patreon. Beta versions of both apps will be accessible to users pledging $3 per month.
This innovative monetization model bypasses Apple’s traditional 15% to 30% commission on sales. However, under the DMA rules, alternative app stores may be subject to Apple’s Core Technology Fee, which charges €0.50 for each first annual install per year over a 1 million threshold. The future of this fee remains uncertain as the EU investigates Apple for potential non-compliance with its competition law.
Empowering Developers and Enhancing User Experience
Once the AltStore is up and running smoothly, Testut plans to open the platform to other developers, allowing them to distribute their apps and leverage the Patreon integration. This move will create new opportunities for developers to establish personal relationships with their users and explore alternative payment systems that Apple might not have considered.
Alternative app stores don’t just have to recreate Apple’s model.
Moreover, the EU version of the AltStore promises a “dramatically simpler” user experience compared to its current iteration. Users will no longer need to use a Mac or PC, provide their Apple ID and password, or refresh apps every seven days. Instead, the process will closely resemble the App Store, with the addition of a confirmation screen mandated by Apple to inform users that updates and purchases will be managed by the AltStore.
Waiting for the Green Light
While the new AltStore is ready for launch, Testut is awaiting final approval from Apple. As the app store ecosystem evolves under the DMA’s influence, it will be fascinating to witness how alternative app stores like the AltStore reshape the landscape and empower developers to explore new avenues for distributing and monetizing their creations.
3 Comments
AltStore stepping up to challenge the giants? Brave move; fingers crossed it pays off!
Finally, indie developers get the spotlight they deserve! Let’s see what gems we’ll uncover.
Can the EU’s AltStore really shake up the digital marketplace, or will it just be a flash in the pan? Time will tell.