Setapp, a subscription-based platform, has said it plans to release an alternative mobile app store exclusively for EU users in 2024.
The move comes in response to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union which requires “gatekeepers” such as Apple and Google to open up their mobile platforms to alternative methods of downloading apps in the EU.
It means Setapp users in the EU will be able to access its app store on their iPhones and iPads expanding the company’s reach beyond macOS. The store will provide a curated collection of mobile apps, ranging from productivity tools to lifestyle applications.
Speaking on the announcement, Mykola Savin, Product Lead at Setapp said: “We view this development as an exciting first step and are eager to participate. We look forward to further easing of restrictions by Apple worldwide in the future.”
He added: “As a response to our users’ top request since day one, the Setapp mobile app store will provide users with a more convenient way to discover and use a wide variety of apps in one place on their iPhones and iPads, as well as make it easier for developers to reach a broader audience and showcase their apps to iOS users.”
According to the firm, the offering will include more than 30 current vendors as well as popular tools like Ulysses, Taskheat, NotePlan, PDFSearch, and Soulver.
Previously, Setapp primarily worked with macOS and web developers but the DMA, means Setapp can now openi its doors to iOS-only developers.
“With 60% of developers interested in distributing their iOS apps through third-party app stores, we are excited to extend our support to iOS-only developers and provide them with a platform to grow users and add revenue streams”, Oleksandr Kosovan, Founder and CEO of Setapp said.
With the announcement, Setapp called upon iOS developers to submit their apps for consideration. Its model ensures that developers receive a fair share of the subscription revenue based on usage and popularity, creating a mutually beneficial ecosystem, Setapp said.
