AltStore: The First Third-Party iOS App Store in Europe
Nearly a month after Apple’s compliance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), AltStore has emerged as the sole third-party iOS app store currently operational in Europe. Created by developer Riley Testut and his partner Shane Gill, AltStore is a B2B-focused marketplace that allows users to install apps without jailbreaking their devices. The primary motivation behind its development was to bring Delta, a Nintendo emulator, to the iPhone through their European app marketplace.
Awaiting Apple’s Approval
The latest version of AltStore is currently undergoing Apple’s rigorous approval process and will be available to users once it receives the green light from the tech giant. Despite the wait, we’ve had the opportunity to preview the marketplace and explore its features.
AltStore launches with Delta game emulator and Clip clipboard apps from a single developer.
Apple’s Costly Requirements
The scarcity of app stores at this juncture can be attributed to Apple’s prohibitive requirements. For instance, its Developer Enterprise Program, which grants companies the ability to distribute apps internally, comes with a hefty annual fee of $299. Additionally, the lack of security doesn’t necessarily equate to compromised identity or data, but increased transparency surrounding data collection, permissions, and privacy would undoubtedly be appreciated.
Is it worth the effort?
Leaving the Comfort of the App Store
The most significant obstacle for widespread adoption of third-party marketplaces will likely be the public’s reluctance to venture beyond the familiar confines of the App Store. Since 2008, users have grown accustomed to downloading apps directly from Apple, trusting in their oversight of security, user privacy, app updates, fraud protection, and refunds.
Third-party app stores introduce an element of uncertainty. Questions arise regarding the handling of fraudulent charges, the frequency of app updates, and the overall level of customer support. Moreover, Apple’s 30% commission on app sales and in-app purchases, which has been a point of contention for large developers, remains unaddressed.
The Need for Consumer-Focused Marketplaces
For the public to embrace alternative marketplaces, consumer-oriented ones must first emerge. Although AltStore is on the verge of going live, the approval process has been protracted, causing the launch to miss its March target.
In their present form, third-party iOS app stores like AltStore will primarily appeal to power users and enthusiast groups who are eager to address niche issues or pursue specific interests that are unavailable on the App Store, such as a fully functional clipboard manager or game emulator.
Apple’s Perspective
Apple is likely content with this situation. The fewer disruptions to its established ecosystem, the better. By allowing AltStore to operate, Apple demonstrates its compliance with the DMA while maintaining a firm grip on the iOS app landscape, effectively placating hungry EU regulators.
1 Comment
Finally, the monopoly crumbles! Who’s ready for a crash course in App Store freedom?