AltStore launches a new open-source third-party iOS App Store in the EU, thanks to the DMA

AltStore has officially launched AltStore PAL in the European Union, an open-source, crowd-funded, Apple-approved third-party iOS app store, and direct alternative to the official Apple App Store. The store, accessible for an annual fee of €1.50, marks a significant departure from its previous version, which required a workaround for installation. This is one of the first third-party app stores for Apple devices to have been launched following the company's policy changes in the EU, thanks to the Digital Markets Act.

AltStore PAL's launch includes two key apps: Delta Emulator, a Nintendo games emulator, and Clip, a clipboard manager that Apple has banned (Clip requires a minimum monthly Patreon pledge of €1 for access, illustrating the use of workarounds against App Store rules). While Delta is also available on Apple's App Store, its presence on AltStore PAL indicates the potential for diverse software on iPhones without depending solely on Apple's App Store. It's also worth noting that while Delta is available for download from the App Store in territories like the US, EU users can only download it through AltStore PAL.

Monetization on AltStore PAL is achieved through Patreon integration, which enables developers to distribute beta apps in exchange for crowd-funded support. The store also invites submissions from third-party developers, and users can add extra sources to access software from different developers.