Apple Is Reportedly Planning to Allow Outside App Stores on iPhones & iPads

Apple is reportedly planning to allow outside app stores on iPhones and iPads in its next major software update.

According to a recent report from Bloomberg which cites people familiar with the company's plans, the move is driven by the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) which seeks to ban platform holders from prohibiting users to access third-party app stores.

The new legislation states that companies should not limit their users in terms of choosing digital stores and sources for downloading applications and must allow users to install and use third-party apps as well as permit sideloading. The law will also force companies to open up their stores to third-party payment options which will allow developers to avoid Apple's 30% App Store cut.

When the EU first revealed the DMA, Apple, which has historically not permitted sideloading on iPhones and iPads, expressed its concern regarding the new legislation noting that some DMA clauses create unnecessary vulnerabilities regarding user privacy and security.

Nonetheless, the company is now forced to change its rules regarding third-party applications and stores. However, as Bloomberg reports, it is considering "mandating certain security requirements", meaning that apps may need to get verification by Apple – a process that might include potential fees. The company has also not decided whether it will allow third-party payment systems.

You can find the original report here. Also, don't forget to join our Reddit page and our Telegram channel, follow us on Instagram and Twitter, where we share breakdowns, the latest news, awesome artworks, and more.