Alternative app store Aptoide launches in EU
Aptoide, an alternative app store, has fully launched its service on iOS devices in the European Union. The marketplace previously entered an open beta phase on Apple devices in June 2024 and is now fully available to all iPhone users in EU countries. As part of its launch, Aptoide has introduced a new App Versions feature, enabling users to install and play older versions of iOS games.
This capability was previously only available on Android. The feature is particularly beneficial for users with older iPhones that are incompatible with the latest software updates or for those who prefer older game versions. The beta launch last June garnered significant interest, with a waitlist of 20,000 users eager to try the service.
Aptoide offers an alternative in-app payment system for iOS and has developed a software development kit in collaboration with Apple to facilitate in-app purchases.
Aptoide’s EU iOS service launch
“This full launch marks a major milestone in game distribution for iOS and Aptoide’s commitment to an open and unrestricted distribution ecosystem,” said Aptoide CEO Paulo Trezentos.
“Apple users now have access to newfound freedoms, but there’s a huge amount of work still to be done to continue opening up iOS globally and reduce friction for users and game developers.”
Following its successful beta, Aptoide has brought popular games like Fortnite and Fall Guys to iOS users in the EU, alongside their availability on Android globally. The marketplace currently offers games like PUBG Mobile, Free Fire, Gardenscapes, Mobile Legends, Top Eleven, and Matchington Mansion. It also includes popular apps such as Facebook, Snapchat, Netflix, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
This launch takes place despite Apple’s business terms, which impose a €0.50 ‘core technology fee’ for each download through non-App Store marketplaces. Developers also incur fees for each download after one million installs on an annual basis. Both Aptoide and other independent app stores have gained the ability to launch on iOS following new regulations requiring Apple to allow third-party app stores on its platform.
Residents of the EU can now access Aptoide on their iPhones and iPads, expanding their options for app downloads and game discovery.
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