Technical rules implemented across the European Union create new opportunities for alternative iOS app stores to list their apps on the platform.
The development allowed AltStore PAL to become the first platform that enables users to access applications beyond what Apple permits through its official App Store.
Since its introduction in April 2024 AltStore PAL evolved into an application marketplace that provides access to software platforms blocked from iPhone devices.
Apple’s strict App Store requirements exclude software like game emulators and torrenting utilities together with various applications that do not meet their standards.
The platform operates under Apple’s “notarization” process, a security check that scans apps for malware and security threats before they can be installed.
Notarization applies as a security measure rather than a form of approval because Apple does not authenticate the contents users download through its process.
The third-party app stores appeared thanks to the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) which took effect during 2022.
The Digital Markets Act drives Apple and other tech giants to let their devices host apps from outside their standard app store in order to boost competition and market innovation.
The underlying purpose of this legislation was to stop monopoly behaviors while enabling customers to pick their desired apps freely.
The implementation of third-party app stores produces significant doubts about protection of users and control over material content.
Apple emphasizes clear warnings regarding the insecure conditions of letting third-party stores function because they fear unauthorized inappropriate or dangerous content.
Apple maintains that non-App Store downloading platforms lack the same level of security and standard verification that Apple maintains.
Apple achieves security protection for users with children through direct content blocking which the current measures could bypass and produce potential scams or unsafe material.
A new IOs app from AltStore PAL emerged this week which immediately gained thorough media coverage during its debut.
The app, named Hot Tub, is being described as an “adult content browser” that provides direct access to explicit material.
Through reported reports users can access videos from P*rnhub and XHamster adult websites to stream on their iPhones.
Even though Apple approves the app through its notarization process it does not indicate approval of the app contents.
The company Apple released an urgent warning against this kind of application because it endangers user safety but particularly threatens minors.
In a statement to Forbes, Apple said: “We are deeply concerned about the safety risks that hardcore p*rn apps of this type create for EU users, especially kids.”
The company continued: “This app and others like it will undermine consumer trust and confidence in our ecosystem that we have worked for more than a decade to make the best in the world.”
Apple must comply with European Commission requirements to provide these third-party applications but it does not endorse such platforms.
The company declared it would not enable such applications to be available on its Apple App Store platform.
Regulatory changes in the digital space face growing resistance from content moderation as this disagreement reveals a worsening conflict.
The growing size of third-party marketplaces creates ongoing problems between consumer rights and protection from risks.
