Apple Starts Allowing EU Developers Add Alternative App Marketplaces to App Store Connect

Apple is now allowing European Union developers to add alternative app marketplaces to App Store Connect. Apple is also accepting submissions for the Notarization process, which is required for all apps that will be distributed through alternative marketplaces.

App Store Connect update

February 8, 2024

This update includes changes to app statuses:

• Ready for Sale has been renamed to Ready for Distribution, and now indicates that your app can be published. To view if your app is available on the App Store, visit Pricing and Availability.
• Developer Removed from Sale, Removed from Sale, and Pending Agreement are no longer app statuses.

This update also provides support for features related to alternative app distribution in the European Union. You can now:

• Add alternative app marketplaces.
• Generate alternative distribution packages.
• Turn on notifications to automatically inform alternative app marketplaces about package updates.
• Submit iOS apps for Notarization.

Apple has made these changes to ‌App Store‌ Connect ahead of the launch of iOS 17.4, an update that overhauls the app ecosystem in the European Union.

Alternative marketplaces and apps that are added to the ‌iPhone‌ through one of the marketplaces must be examined by Apple to prevent the spread of malware, viruses, and similar malicious content.

When submitting an alternative app marketplace or app for Notarization, developers must agree to Apple’s new business terms, which include a Core Technology Fee requiring app marketplaces to pay .50 euros per install. Apps must pay the same fee after 1 million installs.