Apple has released the first beta of iOS 17.5 to developers today, as expected, introducing support for downloading apps from EU developer websites. In iOS 17.4, Apple began allowing developers to offer apps through other app stores in the EU to comply with the Digital Markets Act.
Initially, Apple intended to only offer apps through these stores, but in March of this year, Apple indicated that it would indeed expand support for downloading apps directly from websites.
To offer application downloads on the European Union (EU) website, developers must meet specific criteria. They need to be members of the Apple Developer Program for two consecutive years or more and have had their iOS platform apps installed over one million times in the EU in the previous year. Other requirements include submitting Apple's notarization process and publishing transparent data collection policies.
Apple will provide authorized developers with an API that allows them to download applications via the web. Applications downloaded in this manner can be backed up, restored, and updated.
This marks Apple's first approval for direct website downloads of applications. If developers of apps like Spotify and Fortnite choose to accept Apple's terms, enabling this feature will allow these applications to be downloaded directly on iPhones.
Applications provided via the web do not incur any commission fees to Apple but require a core technology fee of €0.50 per download.
Similar to other app marketplaces, downloaded applications via the web are only for use within the EU under DMA terms. It's worth noting that this change applies only to iPhone downloads, as these alterations do not extend to iPads.
