The first alternative "App Store" opens for iPhone

With the iOS 17.4 update to be released in March, iPhone users in the EU will be able to download apps from outside the App Store. One of the first alternatives to the iOS app store has been announced.

MacPaw announced that Setapp will serve as an alternative app store for iPhone users in the EU from April. The beta programme is already open for those who want to try it out, and developers interested in the platform can apply on this page.
 

Setapp will be the iPhone app store

Alternative app stores are among several changes Apple implemented in the EU with the iOS 17.4 update to comply with the Digital Markets Act. Setapp for Mac is a subscription-based service that offers users a curated collection of dozens of popular apps for $9.99 per month. With the release of iOS 17.4, Setapp will be one of the alternatives to the iOS App Store for iPhone users in the EU.

MacPaw, along with Epic Games, is one of the first companies to announce plans to offer an alternative app marketplace for iPhone in the EU. Setapp subscribers on Mac will be able to access iOS apps via a QR code system. The beta will include carefully curated categories of apps, including productivity and business tools, creative and design software, lifestyle and productivity, utility apps, and customised professional tools.

Apple is expected to release iOS 17.4 on or before 6 March.