Apple will allow iPad users in the EU to download apps from third-party app stores from 16 September

Apple has announced that starting 16 September, alongside the release of iPadOS 18, iPad users in the European Union will be able to download apps through third-party app stores. This step was a response to the requirements of the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA), which obliges companies to provide access to alternative platforms for downloading software.

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Earlier this year, similar changes were introduced for the iPhone. The European Commission has determined that iPadOS is subject to the DMA rules, so Apple is forced to adapt its terms. Although the number of iPadOS users is not very large, the Commission decided to keep these requirements because the platform is important for business users.

After upgrading to iPadOS 18, users will be able to install apps from other stores and use browsers that run on platforms other than Apple's WebKit. Developers will also be able to release their applications without the restrictions associated with the official App Store.

Epic Games has already announced its intention to bring Fortnite back to the iPad via third-party app markets. In addition, users will be allowed to uninstall pre-installed Apple apps and choose alternative apps by default.

Source: MacRumors