Setapp plans independent iOS App Store for EU users, awaiting Digital Markets Act approval

Setapp is planning to debut an independent app store for EU users, contingent on the upcoming Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA could allow third-party apps to be installed on iOS devices without using the Apple App Store, although Apple's stance on the new law is still uncertain. Despite Apple's concerns about security and privacy risks associated with alternative app stores, Setapp is proceeding with development under the assumption that Apple will permit third-party app stores.

Setapp currently operates a subscription service that charges $9.99 monthly for access to over 240 Mac apps across various categories. The company offers several subscription plans to suit different user needs, including plans for iOS devices, multi-device power users, families, and teams. More than 30 partners, such as Ulysses, Taskheat, NotePlan, PDF Search, and Soulver, have already pledged to join Setapp's standalone app store, and the company is actively recruiting more developers.

The company's proposed revenue sharing model aims to give developers a larger share than Apple's model. Setapp suggests a 70/30 split with developers based on monthly app usage, plus an additional 20% share for developers who bring in new customers. This could potentially enable developers to earn up to 90% of Setapp's user fees each month. Setapp's founder and CEO, Oleksandr Kosovan, is eager to extend support to iOS-only developers, intending to offer a platform for user growth and extra revenue streams.