Move aside, Apple: Introducing the alternative app stores heading to the EU.

People in the European Union now have the opportunity to access alternative app stores thanks to the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This regulation aims to promote competition within the app ecosystem. Unlike Apple’s App Store, alternative app marketplaces require apps to undergo a notarization process to ensure they meet specific platform integrity standards, such as being free from malware. Each store has its own policies for app approval and is responsible for support and refunds, rather than Apple.

Developers looking to run an alternative app marketplace in the EU must agree to Apple’s business terms for DMA-compliant apps. This includes paying a Core Technology Fee for each initial annual install of their marketplace app. Despite the complexity of the new rules, some developers have embraced this opportunity to distribute their apps beyond Apple’s platform.

Below are some alternative app stores that iPhone users in the EU can explore:

AltStore PAL
Co-created by developer Riley Testut, AltStore PAL is an officially approved alternative app marketplace in the EU. This open-source store allows independent developers to distribute their apps alongside those from AltStore’s creators. Apps on AltStore are self-hosted by the developer, requiring users to add a specific source to access them. Popular apps on AltStore include UTM, OldOS, Kotoba, iTorrent, qBitControl, and PeopleDrop.

Setapp Mobile
Setapp, known for its curated apps on iOS and Mac, accepted Apple’s new DMA business terms to launch Setapp Mobile for EU iOS users. This subscription-based app store offers a variety of apps without in-app purchases or ads. Users can access Setapp Mobile through specific Setapp subscription plans or a standalone iOS Advanced plan. During the beta period, all Setapp subscribers (excluding Family and Teams plans) can try Setapp Mobile for free.

Epic Games Store
Epic Games introduced its alternative iOS app store in the EU, allowing users to download games like Fortnite, Rocket League Sideswipe, and Fall Guys. They also plan to support other alternative app stores like AltStore PAL, Aptoide’s iOS store, and ONE Store on Android.
The decision to launch Fortnite on the alternative iOS marketplace comes after Apple removed the game from the App Store over policy violations, preceding Epic’s legal challenge to the alleged App Store monopoly. Despite U.S. courts ruling that Apple did not engage in antitrust behavior, the lawsuit did lead to developers being able to link to their own websites for a reduced commission.

Aptoide

Aptoide, an alternative game store for iPhone based in Lisbon, offers an open-source solution for app distribution. The company, known for its Google Play alternative, ensures the safety of apps on its platform. The iOS version of Aptoide initially launched as an invite-only beta in June and is now available to all users in the EU. Aptoide does not charge users to cover the Core Technology Fee paid to Apple, but instead takes a 10% to 20% commission on in-app purchases.

Mobivention Marketplace

The Mobivention marketplace is a B2B-focused app store that allows EU companies to distribute internal apps used by employees but not suitable for the Apple App Store. The company also offers the development of customized app marketplaces for companies looking to provide employees with their own app store exclusively for corporate apps. Larger companies can even license Mobivention’s technology for further customization.

Skich

Skich recently announced the launch of an alternative app store for EU users featuring a Tinder-like interface for app discovery. Users can swipe right to “match” with apps they may enjoy, create playlists, and see what apps their friends are using. While the store will take a 15% commission on all purchases, it has yet to be populated with apps. Skich plans to promote the new store to developers at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) and aims to add titles later in March.