Apple Embraces Third-Party iPhone App Stores in the EU with iOS 17.4

Apple has announced that it will support third-party iPhone app stores in the European Union, with the release of iOS 17.4. This change is in response to the EU's Digital Markets Act and will allow developers to offer their apps for download from alternative marketplaces while still protecting their intellectual property.

The first beta of iOS 17.4 is available now, but these changes are limited to users within the European Union. The update includes new APIs and tools that enable devs to distribute their iOS apps through other app stores besides the App Store. Third-party iPhone app stores will be accessible for installation via third-party websites.

Any app distributed in this manner must go through Apple's Notarization process, which involves automated checks as well as a baseline human review. This aims to ensure accuracy, functionality, safety, security and privacy of all apps regardless of their distribution method.

Developers will be responsible for meeting ongoing requirements, with Apple providing approved marketplace developers access to frameworks and APIs to retrieve notarized apps securely.

Apple is removing the 30% commission fee for apps sold outside of its App Store in a bid to reduce friction from devs feeling forced into its ecosystem. A new Core Technology Fee will be introduced at €0.50 per annual install, however it does not offer any free tier and applies only to marketplaces.