EU users can download iPadOS apps from alternative app stores starting September 16

Apple will allow alternative app stores on iPads in the European Union, beginning September 16, 2024. The change coincides with the release of iPadOS 18, marking a significant update to the iPad ecosystem, long dominated by Apple’s App Store. This move comes in response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to foster competition and curb monopolistic practices among tech giants.

The DMA, a key regulatory measure introduced by the EU, targets “gatekeepers”—large tech firms that control core platform services. Apple, identified as one of these gatekeepers, was instructed to open its operating systems to third-party services. Originally, Apple’s iOS, App Store, and Safari were the primary focus of the DMA. However, earlier this year, the Commission added iPadOS to the list, citing its significant influence, especially among business users.

Despite iPadOS not meeting the user number threshold for full DMA compliance, the EU Commission exercised its authority to include it, arguing that the platform’s “locked-in” nature had strong impacts on enterprise users. As a result, Apple was given six months to align iPadOS with the DMA’s pro-competition standards. The new iPadOS 18 update will now allow users in the EU to install apps through alternative app stores, breaking the long-standing exclusivity of the App Store.

In addition to enabling alternative app stores, the update will allow developers of web browsers to release their own browser engines on iPads. Previously, browsers like Chrome and Firefox on iOS and iPadOS were required to use Apple’s WebKit engine, limiting differentiation and innovation.

Apple’s decision mirrors recent changes made to iOS in compliance with the DMA. Five third-party app stores are now available for iPhone users in the EU, including AltStore PAL, which offers apps like video game emulators and torrenting tools. Epic Games has also launched its own store for iOS, allowing users to download popular games like Fortnite and Rocket League. The company has indicated that its iPad offerings will follow shortly.

While Apple has implemented measures to ensure security, such as requiring notarization of apps before release on alternative stores, it has also introduced a “Core Technology Fee” for developers exceeding certain revenue thresholds. This fee has been controversial, but it remains a requirement for accessing Apple’s ecosystem even outside of its App Store.

As for web browsers, no company has yet taken advantage of the DMA to release a browser for iPads that bypasses Apple’s WebKit engine. However, with the upcoming changes, the potential for more diverse browser offerings is on the horizon.