EU iPhone Users Will Be Allowed to Download Apps Directly from Websites Soon

Recently, Apple has been making some big changes to its core platforms to comply with the European Union’s DMA (Digital Markets Act). With theiOS 17.4 updatereleased last week, Apple made some notable changes to its iPhones and App Store guidelines. This includes support forsideloading on iPhonesandalternative payment methodsfor EU users.

Now, Apple is on its way to making further changes in response to feedback received from developers so far. The most notable change is allowing developers to offer their iOS apps for download directly from the website. For this, Apple will launch anew Web Distribution featurevia a software update, later this spring.

Well, this seems to be one of the most significant DMA-inspired changes yet. As long as the developers are willing to adhere to Apple’s strict guidelines, they can distribute iOS apps in EU markets without the need for a separate app store.

Additionally, there are some other changes that will help developers distribute iOS apps in the EU region.

App Marketplace Changes

Apple announced some sweeping changes to its App Store guidelines earlier this year. Previously, the app marketplace operators had to allow submissions from other developers. But now, Apple says that app marketplaces can choose to offer a catalog of apps solely from the developer of that marketplace. With this immediate change, a company gets the complete freedom to operate an app marketplace and offer its iOS apps for download.

Distribution of Apps From Websites

Developers also have the option to ditch the app marketplace route entirely. As mentioned above, Apple will launch a new “Web Distribution” feature via a software update that allows developers to distribute their iOS apps from their own website. Now, this means rather than going to the App Store or an alternative marketplace, iPhone users in the EU can go to a developer’s website and download an app.

Of course, Apple won’t offer such massive changes for free. If developers want to use the “Web Distribution” feature, they will have to agree to thenew App Store business terms. Now, that means, a new commission rate would come into effect for these developers. They willpay the Core Technology Feeof €0.50 for every first annual installation of over one million installs.Image Courtesy: Apple

Also, the apps have to still meet Apple’s notarization guidelines to protect the platform’s integrity. iPhone users can install apps from a website domain that’s registered in App Store Connect.

“Using App Store Connect, developers can easily download signed binary assets and host them on their website for distribution. To install apps from a developer’s website, users will first need to approve the developer to install apps in Settings on their iPhone. When installing an app, a system sheet will display information that developers have submitted to Apple for review, like the app name, developer name, app description, screenshots, and system age rating.”- Apple

To distribute apps via a website, developers have to meet certain eligibility criteria.

These are some of the conditions. The Cupertino tech giant has explained all the requirements, fees, waivers, and more in aseparate document.

Linking Out

Finally, Apple is also changing its strict guidelines around how they can link to an external webpage to complete transactions. Apple now allows developers to choose “how to design promotions, discounts, and other deals”. This means Apple’s own templates and guidelines are now optional, rather than being forced on the developers. This change is also effective immediately.

Of course, just like other changes, the new iOS app distribution policies are only for app developers in the EU. Also, only users in the EU can enjoy this newly-given freedom. Other developers and users still have to go through Apple’s official App Store.

Well, it’s good to see Apple finally pushing its boundaries and taking a more flexible approach, even if it’s for the sake of escaping a lawsuit. While it doesn’t seem to be happening anytime soon, we hope Apple extends these liberties across the globe for its loyal fanbase.

Amongst other changes due to EU’s tech guidelines, Apple is also preparing toallow iPhone users in the EU to uninstall Safarientirely and switch to a third-party web browser.

Kanika Gogia

Kanika has been a loyal iPhone user since 2014 and loves everything Apple. With a Master’s in Computer Applications, passion for technology, and over five years of experience in writing, she landed at Beebom as an Apple Ecosystem Writer. She specializes in writing How To’s, troubleshooting guides, App features, and roundups for Apple users to help them make the best use of their gadgets. When not writing, she loves to try out new recipes and enjoy some family time.

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