Following the EU’s decision to open up Apple’s iOS platform to third-party app stores, we now have an alternative to the default App Store called AltStore PAL, which seems fitting.
AltStore PAL has technically been available since 2019, but accessing it required some ‘hacking’ by disguising oneself as a developer using the companion software AltServer. However, thanks to the EU Commission’s DMA, AltStore PAL is now accessible to anyone willing to follow Apple’s instructions to enable installation from other app stores.
Access to AltStore PAL comes with a small annual fee of €1.50, covering Apple’s core technology fee required for AltStore PAL to operate on iOS.
The app store also offers enhanced integration with Patreon to support developers who share beta apps, providing a crowdfunding feature not found in the default App Store.
Furthermore, the developers are planning to release their app Delta on Apple’s App Store. Delta, a game emulator, is not new but will now be available on the default App Store, allowing users to play games from various consoles like NES, SNES, Nintendo 64, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and Nintendo DS.