Alternative app stores for the iPhone will be a reality very soon and Apple already allows you to try them
Along with iOS 17.4, many new features are coming to the iPhone and Apple is already preparing. One of the most important changes is the arrival of alternative application markets to the iPhone and the company has just notified developers that These alternative app stores can now begin to be tested.
Apple has launched its App Store Connect API to configure the distribution of these alternative markets of apps and now you can Use the TestFlight app to beta test these alternative app stores on the iPhone.
Developers who have accepted the new terms of business can now use the new App Store Connect features and the App Store Connect API to configure marketplace distribution and marketplace apps, and use TestFlight to beta test these features. TestFlight also supports applications that use alternative browser engines and alternative payments through payment service providers and links to a web page.
Along with alternative app stores, Apple has also decided admit apps that use alternative browsers to WebKit in TestFlighthopefully Chrome will be updated soon to use its own search engine, as well as alternative payment apps to Apple Paysince Apple already allows any app to use NFC.
iOS 17.4 will be a historic update
iOS 17.4 represents an opening of the iPhone like we have rarely seen in an Apple update. Starting with alternative application stores and ending with the opening of NFC, without forgetting the option that browsers now have to use alternative search engines. In addition, we can choose from a large number of browsers the first time we open Safari.
This update will arrive during the first days of March, so it is normal that Apple already begins to allow developers to update their apps and begin testing them so that ready when iOS 17.4 is released. We will see if there is an alternative app store ready for launch, since a series of requirements must be met that are not easy.
To do this, you not only have to demonstrate solvency with one million euros, you have to accept the new commercial terms that include a basic technology fee requiring app markets to pay €0.50 per installation when the apps reach 1 million installations.