Apple has announced it will soon allow iOS app installation directly from the developer’s website in the EU. The change will come into effect after a software update in the spring of this year. The announcement has come barely a week after the iOS 17.4 release, a major software update that added support for alternative app marketplaces in the EU. These changes are part of Apple’s attempt to comply with the new Digital Markets Act (DMA) in Europe.
Apple to Offer Web Distribution of iOS Apps But With Conditions
Web distribution of iOS apps is meant to offer more options to developers when it comes to reaching potential users. It will eliminate the need for devs to look for a third-party app store if they wish to offer their apps beyond the App Store. But since it is Apple we are talking about, the whole process will not be as simple as it is on Android.
Apple has a long list of strict rules and regulations that developers will need to follow to offer apps through websites. The first thing to note is that only authorized developers will be allowed for the web distribution. Various conditions need to be met to become authorized.
For example, a developer must be enrolled in the Apple Developer Program and “be a member of good standing in the Apple Developer Program for two continuous years or more.” They also need to have an app with “more than one million first annual installs on iOS in the EU in the prior calendar year.”
Apple adds all apps approved for web distribution will also need to meet all the Notarization requirements like other iOS apps to protect the platform’s integrity. It will provide those apps with access to APIs for system functionality integration, backing up and restoring users’ apps, and more. Developers can offer iOS apps for installation only through the domain they have registered in App Store Connect.
All developers utilizing the web distribution system will also have to pay the Core Technology Fee (CTF). This will require them to pay EUR 0.50 for each first annual install over one million in the past 12 months. Only nonprofit organizations, accredited educational institutions, or government entities based in the EU that have been approved for a fee waiver will be exempted from the CTF.
From the iOS users’ perspective, they will have to approve a developer for app installation from iOS settings before installing an app from the website. A system sheet will appear during installation that will show the necessary information about the app and the developer. It will also include app screenshots and age ratings like it is on the App Store.
More iOS Changes Coming Our Way’
This is in addition to this, Apple is planning to make iPhone-to-Android transfers much easier and the ability to change default browsers. These and more features are expected to arrive for users later this year but will most likely be restricted in the EU region.
It remains to be seen whether or not other regions get hold of these new changes Apple is making.
