App creators in EU can start testing iOS applications for third-party app stores

Apple just revealed its next course of action in reaction to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). Developers may now test their iOS apps and markets in Apple’s Labs.

With this change, developers that accepted the contentious terms of business will be able to set up their applications using the new functionalities in App Store Connect and App Store Connect API. The new features can then be beta-tested by developers using TestFlight.

Several in the industry have expressed worries about Cupertino’s implementation of iOS opening up to alternative app stores, despite the European Commission’s mandate. Prominent figures that opposed Apple’s DMA implementation included the president of Xbox, the CEO of Epic, and the CEO of Spotify.

The updated version will go into effect by March 2024. Next month, the European Commission (EC) will examine Apple’s business practices. It is likely that the organisation will be unhappy and will pressure Tim Cook and company to make additional adjustments to allow for greater competition.