Apptoide: First Free iOS App Store Now Available in EU

If you've been on the hunt for an alternative to the iOS App Store, your options have historically been limited due to Apple's protective stance over its platform. However, recent legal developments have started to change this landscape. Following the launch of the Epic Games Store on iOS, Aptoide has now entered the scene as a new player in the EU.

As some of you might remember, we previously discussed Aptoide during its beta phase in mid-2024. Now, iOS users in the EU can download Aptoide for free and explore what it has to offer. While Aptoide claims to be the first alternative app store on iOS, it's worth noting that the Epic Games Store actually launched its full version a few months earlier.

What sets Aptoide apart is its diverse range of offerings. Unlike the Epic Games Store, which primarily focuses on gaming, Aptoide provides a broader selection of general apps. Additionally, Aptoide introduces a unique feature allowing users to choose specific versions of apps, a functionality previously exclusive to Android users.

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While my earlier comments might have hinted at skepticism, I genuinely believe Aptoide has a strong case for being considered the first alternative app store, particularly considering its beta phase. The Epic Games Store, while technically third-party, is still backed by a major industry player.

For those who have been following the Epic v Apple legal battles and the subsequent opening of iOS to more app stores, Aptoide's arrival is a significant development. It will be interesting to see how Aptoide appeals to users who are looking for alternatives to Apple's App Store.