SAN JOSE (California): Following pressure from EU regulators, Apple has announced that iPhone users in the European Union (EU) can now download apps directly from developer websites, instead of having to go through its App Store, reported German news agency (dpa).
The newly announced move, also known as sideloading, is in compliance with the EU’s landmark Digital Markets Act or DMA, introduced to regulate tech giants and to provide a level playing field for smaller rivals.
“Distributing apps directly from a website requires responsibility and oversight of the user experience, including the ability to manage apps and provide customer support and refunds,” Apple said on a support page.
“Apple will authorise developers after meeting specific criteria and committing to ongoing requirements that help protect users.”
Sideloading, which will come into effect from this spring, was often opposed by Apple citing security risks as the company would not be able to provide customer support in case of refunds or any violation of privacy.
The smartphone maker also said that, to be eligible for web distribution, companies will have to meet criteria, including having “an app that had more than one million first annual installs on iOS in the EU in the prior calendar year”.
Additionally, Apple insisted on a core technology commission of €0.50 (US$0.55) “for each first annual install over one million in the past 12 months.”
The iPhone-maker has so far made many changes, including allowing third-party app stores in Europe, and reinstating Epic Games’ developer account, to avoid the EU penalties. – BERNAMA-dpa
