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, you've likely been frustrated by Apple's tight control over its ecosystem. However, following years of legal battles, the landscape began to shift in 2024, and now, Aptoide, an independent app store, has launched for free on iOS for EU users.

We previously covered Aptoide's initial beta in mid-2024, and now, all EU iOS users can download and explore Aptoide at no cost. While Aptoide boldly claims to be the first alternative app store on iOS, it's worth noting that the Epic Games Store actually beat them to the punch by a few months in terms of full release.

What sets Aptoide apart is its broader range of offerings. Unlike the Epic Games Store, which focuses primarily on gaming, Aptoide provides a variety of general apps alongside games. Additionally, Aptoide introduces an innovative feature allowing users to select specific versions of apps, a functionality that was previously exclusive to Android users.

Alternatively, yoursWhile my initial comments might seem skeptical, I believe Aptoide has a legitimate claim to being the first general, third-party storefront on iOS, especially considering its beta phase. The Epic Games Store, though a third-party option, is still operated by a major industry player.

For those of us who have been following the Epic v Apple legal battles and the subsequent opening of iOS to more app stores, this is promising news. Now, the real test will be whether Aptoide can attract users who are dissatisfied with Apple's App Store.