European developers see a new Apple sideloading feature from Cupertino which will allow them to distribute their iOS apps directly from their websites or other platforms, but there is a requirement. Through the new Web Distribution option, developers may opt out of the App Store or third-party marketplaces entirely, but this needs for them to have at least 1 million downloads the year prior.
It is bad news for startup developers and those who have not reached this number from last year, as it means that they are stuck in their current setup.
Apple Sideloading: iOS Apps Web Distribution Requirements
In Apple's latest announcement for developers, the company is now allowing developers to distribute their apps via their websites or those of their choice to download and install for users. However, there is a massive requirement from Apple regarding this new feature option, and that is having at least 1 million downloads for iOS in the EU in the last calendar year.
Through this new Web Distribution, developers who qualify no longer need to distribute their apps via the App Store or third-party platforms for users to enjoy.
Apple said that come Spring, Web Distribution will allow authorized developers to offer customers the ability to directly download their apps online.
1M or Use the App Stores or Third-Party Platforms
While the 1 million iOS app downloads in the EU is one thing, Apple also requires these developers to be enrolled in the Apple Developer Program, and is part of the European Union. Moreover, Apple asks that they be a member of good standing' under this program for two continuous years or more, alongside the million-download requirements.
Not meeting these demands would not allow a developer to distribute apps and install them on iOS via websites, asking them to resort to third-party platforms.
Apple, EU's DMA, and Sideloading
As the jig went up for Apple's massive restrictions on the App Store and other facets of its 'gatekeeper' services, the company applied several changes it to adhere to the EU's new law, the Digital Markets Act. However, its initial policies were met with scrutiny as it was said that Apple would charge developers who are offering sideloading of their apps.
It was also made clear by Apple that sideloading would only be available within the European Union's jurisdictions, exclusive for the citizens of the region. The DMA only requires Apple to make the features it wants changed in the EU, and Apple clarified its stance that for those outside the EU, the App Store remains the only source for the iOS apps' download and installation.
The many changes for Apple's operations in the EU have been applied, with the company now avoiding the fines in its compliance, but is still not safe from the other complaints from the likes of Spotify. In this new clarification by Apple, sideloading directly from websites would require a stellar one million downloads from last year, and for those who do not have this number, they are to remain on third-party platforms or the Apple App Store.
