Alternative app stores in the EU: what the DMA changed in 2026
Europe's Digital Markets Act keeps reshaping the iOS ecosystem. On January 1, 2026 Apple moved to a single business model for all developers in the EU — the most visible rule change in years. Here's what happened.
From a per-install fee to a revenue commission
The notorious Core Technology Fee — €0.50 per install above one million — is gone. It was replaced by the Core Technology Commission: 5% of digital goods and services revenue. The commission applies equally across all EU distribution channels: the App Store, web distribution and alternative marketplaces.
What developers pay now
The lowest effective rate for an EU developer in 2026 is around 7%: the web distribution or alternative marketplace route, where the 5% CTC is joined only by a 2% Initial Acquisition Fee for new users in the first six months. Classic App Store distribution remains pricier, but with no infrastructure costs of your own.
Alternative stores: expectations vs. reality
Formally, EU iPhone users have been able to install apps from alternative stores for two years. In practice the market is harder: in February 2026 MacPaw shut down Setapp Mobile — one of the first alternative marketplaces — citing complex, ever-changing business terms. Building a viable App Store alternative turned out to be harder than it looked.
What it means for users of our apps
For you — nothing to worry about: all VOIO apps ship through the official App Store with all of its protections — review, privacy labels, secure payments. We keep an eye on alternative channels, but reliability comes first.
In short
- Since 01.01.2026 Apple runs a single business model for all EU developers
- The CTF (€0.50/install) was replaced by a 5% Core Technology Commission
- The minimum effective rate is ~7% via web distribution
- Alternative stores haven't gone mainstream yet
