Apple confirmed that the iPad will be opened to third-party stores to comply with the Digital Markets Law (DMA) in Europe. The Cupertino company announced that the changes will come to iPadOS this year. The measure comes after the European Commission designated Apple’s mobile operating system as a gatekeeper, forcing it to adopt certain guidelines.
The technology company published an update on their website for developers in which he mentions that all iOS changes for apps in the European Union will apply to iPadOS. That means third-party stores, controls for default apps, and interoperability with other browser engines will also be available on the iPad. Apple specified that the settings will be available during the last quarter of 2024.
“Developers can choose to adopt the Alternative Commercial Terms for Apps in the EU that will include these additional capabilities and options in iPadOS, or stay on Apple’s existing terms,” ​​the company said.
The technology giant has had to fold its hands after the European Commission determined that the iPad operating system was subject to the DMA. Margrethe Vestager, vice president of competition, stated a few days ago that iPadOS constitutes an important gateway that many companies rely on to reach their customers.
“Today’s decision will ensure that fairness and contestability are preserved on this platform as well, in addition to the 22 other services we designated last September. Apple has six months to bring iPadOS into compliance with the DMA,” Vestager said.
Manzana also made important changes to the controversial Core Technology Feewhich will not apply to free apps.
The iPad will receive third-party stores this year
The changes implemented by Apple will allow third-party stores to be installed on the iPad by the end of 2024. Users will be able to download a marketplace alternative to the App Store that allows you to install applications from other sources. Developers will have to comply a series of guidelines that guarantee people’s privacyand offer a token necessary for distribution.
“When considering distribution on an alternative App marketplace, developers should evaluate the offering and marketplace terms and conditions (including financial obligations, approval processes and policies, and legal protections) before setting up alternative distribution on App Store Connect. Marketplace apps can only be installed from the marketplace developer’s website.“
Third-party stores and applications that are distributed outside of the App Store will not include some Apple-specific features. Features such as refunds, family sharing purchases or universal purchases will not be available. We will also not be able to view the history of purchases, cancellations or subscription management within the App Store, since it is an independent market.
As Uncle Ben said, With great power comes great responsibility. Developers will be responsible for establishing content rules, anti-fraud measures, and a dispute management system for payments and refunds.
Until now, the only third-party app store that representsA real alternative to the App Store is Aptoide. The famous marketplace Android debuted on the iPhone a few days ago through a closed beta. Changes to iPadOS mean we could see it on the iPad this year.
