If you've been on the hunt for an alternative to the iOS App Store, you've likely faced challenges due to Apple's protective stance over its platform. However, following years of legal battles, the landscape began to shift last year, and now, Aptoide, the independent App Store, has become available for free on iOS for EU users.

We previously covered Aptoide during its initial beta phase in mid-2024, and now, all EU iOS users can download and explore this new option. While Aptoide boldly claims to be the first alternative app store on iOS, it's worth noting that the Epic Games Store actually launched its full release a few months earlier. Yet, Aptoide distinguishes itself by offering a broader range of apps, not just focusing on gaming. They also introduce an innovative feature allowing users to select specific versions of apps, a functionality previously exclusive to Android users.

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While my initial remarks might seem skeptical, I believe Aptoide has a legitimate claim to being the first general, third-party app store on iOS, especially considering its beta period. The Epic Games Store, although a third-party option, is still operated by a major industry player.

For those of us who have been following the Epic v Apple legal battle and the subsequent opening of iOS to more app stores, Aptoide's arrival is a significant development. It will be interesting to see if Aptoide can successfully attract users who are dissatisfied with the Apple App Store.