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When iPadOS 18 lands next week, iPad owners in the EU can use alternative app stores.
Back in May, Digital Markets Act (DMA) changes meant users in the EU could use third-party app stores and install apps offered through these stores on iPhones running iOS 17.4 or later. They could also install apps from a developer’s website on iPhones running iOS 17.5 or later.
These changes came into force after the European Commission accused Apple of violating the DMA with its App Store policies, saying it used “core platform services” (CPS), including iOS, the App Store, and Safari, to monopolize the market.
It added iPadOS to the list in April, giving Apple six months to ensure iPadOS complied with the DMA.
With iPadOS 18, which launches on September 16th, iPad users in the EU can install third-party app stores. Web browser developers can also release iPad browsers with their browser engines.
Epic Plans to Bring Its Game Store to iPad
Five third-party app stores, including AltStore PAL, are available for iOS in the EU, and similar offerings can be expected on iPad.
Epic Games also has its store, offering access to games such as Rocket League Sideswipe, Fall Guys, and Fortnite. It plans to bring its games to iPads in the future.
Today the Epic Games Store is available for download on iPhones in the European Union and on Android devices worldwide. 📲 We’re launching on iOS devices in the European Union thanks to the Digital Markets Act, but Apple is still blocking all other iOS users outside of Europe… pic.twitter.com/r9o3R2UAAv
— Epic Games Newsroom (@EpicNewsroom) August 16, 2024
Apple still notarizes apps for security before they become available in third-party app stores. It also charges developers a Core Technology Fee if they exceed certain limits and requires them to sign Apple’s new business terms.
