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Move over, Apple: Meet the alternative app stores coming to the EU
As the European Union continues to grapple with issues surrounding tech giant dominance and consumer choice, a new wave of alternative app stores is emerging to challenge the status quo. In this article, we’ll explore three major players that have recently launched or are preparing to launch their own alternatives.
First up is Aptoide, an open-source app store based in Lisbon that offers a free-to-use platform for users. Unlike Apple’s strict guidelines and fees, Aptoide scans apps for safety before making them available for download and installation. Although it’s only available as an invite-only beta at the moment, the iOS version of the Aptoide store was launched in June.
This move is significant because it not only provides a more level playing field for developers but also ensures that users have access to apps without being limited by Apple’s restrictions. As part of its strategy, Aptoide doesn’t charge users a fee, which means they won’t be required to cover the Core Technology Fee paid to Apple, but does take a commission on in-app purchases between 10% and 20%, depending on whether it was generated by the marketplace or not.
Another player is Mobivention, an EU-focused B2B app store that allows companies to distribute internal apps used by employees. By targeting corporate clients, Mobivention can bypass Apple’s App Store guidelines while still offering a more robust experience for their users. Companies like these can license Mobivention’s technology to customize the app marketplace to their needs.
Thirdly, there is Skich, which has announced its own EU-focused alternative app store that offers an innovative approach to app discovery through a Tinder-like interface. Users swipe right on apps they’re interested in, while also creating playlists and seeing what games are popular among friends. Skich’s new offering will replace their existing app and take a 15% commission on all purchases made.
This influx of alternative stores highlights the growing need for more choice in how we interact with mobile devices.
Source: https://techcrunch.com/2025/03/13/move-over-apple-meet-the-alternative-app-stores-coming-to-the-eu/
