All articles tagged with #alternative app marketplaces
Apple clarified that EU iPhone users can update and use apps from alternative app marketplaces for 30 days when leaving the EU, but new installations are restricted to the EU. Users must be physically located in the EU and have their Apple ID set to an EU country to install alternative app marketplaces. The update comes with the release of iOS 17.4, which also includes new features and changes for iPhone users.
Apple has clarified that users with an EU Apple ID have a 30-day grace period to continue using alternative app marketplaces and updating sideloaded apps when traveling outside the EU. However, this grace period only applies to app updates already installed on the device, and users must be physically present in the EU to install new apps from outside the App Store or download new app marketplaces.
Apple's iOS 17.4 beta introduces a new app verification screen for EU users, prompting them to verify app information before installation from the App Store and alternative app marketplaces. This move is likely aimed at addressing potential anticompetitive concerns. However, Apple has stated that this prompt appearing in the EU is a bug and will be fixed before the public release of iOS 17.4 in March.
Apple is allowing EU developers to add alternative app marketplaces to App Store Connect ahead of the launch of iOS 17.4, with a Notarization process required for all apps distributed through these marketplaces. The new business terms include a Core Technology Fee, and TestFlight now supports apps using alternative browser engines and payments through third-party providers. Additionally, Apple is preparing to release iOS 17.3.1 and 17.4, which will bring major changes to the app ecosystem in the EU, including new features and preparations for next-generation CarPlay.
Apple's former marketing chief and current App Store head Phil Schiller discussed the risks associated with allowing alternative app marketplaces on the iPhone in the EU, citing potential privacy, safety, and security concerns. Schiller highlighted the possibility of users encountering objectionable content and the increased risk of scams, fraud, and abuse. Apple will notarize all apps to prevent malicious or unsafe ones from being available on alternative app marketplaces, but acknowledged that the risks remain despite safeguards.
Apple announces significant changes to comply with EU regulations, including allowing developers to offer iOS apps through alternative app marketplaces, introducing new APIs for third-party web browsers, extending NFC technology access to banking and wallet apps, and providing options for using alternative payment service providers within apps. Users in the EU will be able to choose default App Stores and contactless payment apps, while developers can request interoperability with iPhone and iOS hardware and software features. These changes will only apply to the EU, except for the new capability for developers to submit a single app to stream all games, which extends beyond Europe.