iPhones to Get Alternative App Store Soon: All You Need to Know

iPhone users will soon get an alternative to the Apple App Store. MacPaw will be the first company to offer a compelling third-party App Store for iPhone users running on iOS 17.4 or newer versions.

However, it will be available only for iPhone users in the European Union (EU). It comes as a part of Apple's efforts to comply with the new DMA (Digital Markets Act) rule in the European Union. The beta version of the Setapp has been released, while the stable version will be announced next month.

MacPaw's Setapp is a subscription-based platform, offering a curated collection of Mac users, priced at $9.99 per month. Users can access 240+ third-party apps such as MindNode, Ulysses, Session, iStat Menus, Unite, Spark Mail, and more.

The third-party alternative Setapp will be available for iPhone users with iOS 17.4 update. The Setapp's new iOS app store will also come with a subscription. However, the pricing is yet to be revealed.

"We are setting a new path for the software industry towards a better and more diverse app ecosystem. This will offer customers more choices and a better overall user experience," said Oleksandr Kosovan, CEO and Founder of MacPaw.

Users who want access to Setapp Mobile, are requested to join the waitlist. MacPaw is also seeking iOS developers eager to join Setapp Mobile.

Additionally, Apple tells support staff not to speculate if side loading and third-party app marketplaces will come to more regions. So, it is a clear indication that Apple might not allow third-party app stores on iPhones outside the EU anytime soon.

Apple iOS 17.4 is expected to be released by the first week of March. The update will bring several changes to the iPhone to the European Union. The lists include the ability to download apps outside Apple's App Store, a new emoji, a new battery setting section, and more.