EU's DMA Opens the Floodgates for Alternative iOS App Stores
2025-03-14
The European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) has unleashed a wave of alternative app stores for iOS users in the EU. Developers are seizing the opportunity, launching options like AltStore PAL, Setapp Mobile, Epic Games Store, Aptoide, and Mobivention, offering users choices beyond Apple's App Store. These stores cater to diverse needs: AltStore PAL emphasizes open source and developer self-hosting; Setapp Mobile offers curated subscription apps; Epic Games Store and Aptoide focus on games; and Mobivention targets enterprise internal apps. While Apple charges fees, the DMA's impact has broken Apple's App Store monopoly, creating opportunities for users and developers alike.