MacPaw launches alternative app marketplace Setapp Mobile in open beta in the EU

MacPaw has unveiled the open beta of Setapp Mobile, one of the first alternative app marketplaces available to the public. The Setapp Mobile beta, currently featuring a curated collection of 50 lifestyle and productivity apps, allows users to explore a variety of high-quality software solutions through a single subscription. This model aims to simplify the app discovery process, while also providing developers with a fair compensation system based on app usage and performance within the marketplace.

Originally designed as a marketplace for macOS applications, Setapp first made its mark as a comprehensive platform for desktop users. In May, the company expanded its offerings by launching Setapp Mobile in a closed beta.

MacPaw’s decision to launch Setapp Mobile comes on the heels of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), recently implemented by the European Union. The DMA paves the way for alternative app marketplaces, giving users the option to break free from the confines of Apple’s App Store. According to MacPaw’s recent “iOS Market Insights for EU” report, the timing couldn’t be better: the report revealed that 80% of iPhone users and 60% of developers are eager to experiment with third-party app stores.

Speaking on the launch, Oleksandr Kosovan, MacPaw’s CEO and Founder, emphasized the significance of the new platform: “Setapp Mobile is not just an app marketplace; it’s a smarter, more transparent ecosystem. We are offering users a clean, intuitive experience that eliminates the typical app clutter, while also creating a sustainable, fair platform for developers.”

Kosovan further highlighted that the single subscription model is a core feature that streamlines the user experience, giving users hassle-free access to top-tier apps without hidden fees or in-app purchases.

Mykola Savin, Director of Product Management at MacPaw, shared how feedback from the closed beta phase has helped refine Setapp Mobile. “Thanks to our early users, we’ve made significant strides in improving stability and expanding our app library. The number of apps has doubled since the closed beta, and we’re excited to gather more insights as we move forward.” He underscored that user feedback will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the platform’s future.

Setapp Mobile distinguishes itself by offering an app catalog that is free from in-app purchases. Some of the popular apps available at launch include MacPaw’s CleanMy®Phone and ClearVPN, alongside third-party options like Riveo, BusyCal, and Awesome Habits.

For users in the European Union, accessing Setapp Mobile is straightforward. The app is available to those running iOS 17.4 or later and requires an Apple ID linked to an EU member state. Users already subscribed to Setapp under the “Power User” or “AI Expert” plans will receive Setapp Mobile at no extra charge. Those with other plans can upgrade to access the mobile marketplace, while new users can opt for a seven-day free trial of the “iOS Advanced” plan to explore what Setapp Mobile has to offer.