Popular software and hardware company Apple Inc. could soon allow external app downloads on its popular iPhones and iPad devices. According to a Bloomberg report, the company is preparing to enable alternative app stores as part of an overhaul to comply with strict European Union requirements coming into effect in 2024.

Apple Engineers are Working to Open Up Key Elements of its Platforms

Apple’s software engineering and services teams are reportedly working towards opening up key elements of the company’s platforms, allowing device owners to download third-party apps without going through the Apple App Store.

The move is in response to an EU law focused on providing a fair environment for third-party developers and improving consumers’ digital lives. For a long time, software developers, regulators and app users have complained that companies such as Apple and Google control a significant portion of the mobile app industry.

This, in turn, means that crypto and Web3 developers stand to benefit from the EU requiring Apple to open up app downloads from third parties. It will provide a means for such developers to circumvent Apple’s restrictive policies and mandatory 30% commission on all purchases made in its app store.

The Law Will Likely Only Apply in the EU

The new EU law, dubbed the Digital Markets Act, is scheduled to be implemented in the coming months, but full compliance by companies is only required in 2024. The Act compels technology companies to allow the installation of external apps and a means for customers to change default settings.

The EU’s Digital Markets Act currently only applies to tech companies with a minimum market value of €75 billion ($80 billion) and a minimum of 45 million monthly users within the European Union.

However, the potential changes allowing third-party app downloads might only benefit Apple iOS users and developers in the European Union. Other countries and regions need to pass similar laws within their jurisdictions for Apple to provide a means for third-party app downloads.

(By John P. Njui)