Tag: App Store

  • Aptoide: Free App Store Alternative Now Available in EU

    Aptoide: Free App Store Alternative Now Available in EU

    Key Takeaways

    1. Aptoide is now available to all users in the European Union as of June 6, 2024, after years of limited access.
    2. The launch is seen as a significant milestone for game distribution on iOS, promoting an open app ecosystem.
    3. Users had to join a waiting list to access Aptoide, but that phase has now ended.
    4. Aptoide offers a unique “App Versions” feature, allowing users to access older versions of apps, unlike Google Play and Apple App Store.
    5. The opening of Aptoide’s app store represents a major advancement in the distribution of iOS apps.

    No less than 15 years after it first appeared, Aptoide is now accessible to everyone in the European Union. As of June 6, 2024, the iOS app store tailored for gamers was made available in the area, initially for a select group of testers. Interested users had to sign up on a waiting list, hoping to gain access sooner rather than later. That waiting phase has now ended, and anyone can try out this alternative app store.

    A Significant Step Forward

    Paulo Trezentos, Aptoide’s CEO, shared his thoughts on the launch, stating, “This full launch marks a major milestone in game distribution on iOS and Aptoide’s commitment to an open and unrestricted app distribution ecosystem. Apple users now have access to newfound freedoms, but there’s a huge amount of work still to be done to continue opening up iOS globally and reduce friction for users, and game developers.”

    Unique Features of Aptoide

    What differentiates Aptoide from others is its App Versions feature. This allows iOS users to access older versions of apps, much like Android users have been able to do through Aptoide and similar platforms. In contrast, neither the Google Play Store nor the Apple App Store offer this versioning feature, which can be incredibly helpful when an update doesn’t go as planned and reverting to a previous version is the best option available.

    The latest Aptoide version for iOS can be downloaded for free from here.

    Conclusion

    Android Authority notes that Aptoide’s app store opening to consumers across the European Union signifies a major advancement in the distribution of iOS apps.

    Source:
    Link

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  • Google Gemini Standalone App Found on App Store

    Google Gemini Standalone App Found on App Store

    Google’s Gemini AI assistant might be getting its own app in the App Store soon. A Reddit user named "lostshenanigans" managed to download the app while in the Philippines and shared some screenshots in a post.

    App Availability Issues

    Other users attempting to download the app on iOS faced a message saying, "The app is currently not available in your country or region." This new app lets users add Gemini to their home screen for quicker access. Right now, Google only offers Gemini through its main Google app, which means users have to manually switch to the assistant by clicking on a special tab.

    Features of the Gemini App

    According to a report by Google9to5, the listing for the app in the Philippines also mentions a feature called Gemini Live. This feature allows users to have voice conversations with the assistant. Users can ask it to retrieve relevant information from connected services or apps. For instance, you can request it to show meeting details from an email in your account. This functionality isn’t available in the Google app and would need a standalone Gemini app for Android users.

    Recent Integrations

    Recently, Google has added Gemini to Maps, Earth, and Waze, introducing new tools for urban planning, Smart Search with contextual results, enhanced route exploration, and more.

    9to5Google reported this update on Reddit.

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  • Play Retro Games on Your iPhone: Not What You Expect

    Play Retro Games on Your iPhone: Not What You Expect

    Apple’s recent revision to their App Store guidelines appears to open the door for emulator apps designed for retro console games, suggesting a potential shift in their approach. Where previously they prohibited applications that relied on external code sources like Java VM or DLL files for code installation and execution purposes, under certain conditions this new policy now permits these inclusions as "software not embedded in binary" systems – with retro console emulator apps specifically mentioned within these guidelines which facilitate game downloads directly in-app.

    Adopt Retro Gaming Emulators Technology

    Note, though, that while emulators themselves are generally considered legal, their legality in relation to Read-Only Memories (ROMs) (Read Only Memorys) can be more contentious. Retro game emulation relies heavily on these digital files which serve as virtual game cartridges or discs – their source plays an instrumental role in their resulting legality status.

    Some ROMs are freely available in the public domain or come with distribution licenses; others are protected by copyright laws; when their original copyright owner becomes inaccessible, their status becomes unclear; although certain Nintendo game ROMs tend to be closely guarded by owners who actively enforce copyright protection measures.

    Responsible Developer and Regulatory Implications of Web Based Application Development Solutions

    Apple’s updated guidelines remain somewhat vague compared to Android and desktop emulator apps; specifically in regard to emulator apps. Apple may allow companies who own intellectual property rights for games created under license to develop emulator apps specific to those titles for user access to exclusive ROMs for each title.

    Focus of Apple’s update is on assuring developers abide by its legal requirements when offering software through the App Store, though "retro game console emulator apps" that permit downloads are allowed – other download methods remain unspecified.

    Apple’s Global Reach and Their Strategic Move

    Apple has implemented an expansive policy change spanning multiple regions in response to increasing regulatory scrutiny around its App Store practices across both Europe and North America. Without providing exact details of why this shift took place, they note it aligns with updated policies and upcoming features as justifications.

    At first glance, this update suggests a marked improvement to retro gaming accessibility on iOS devices; however, all its details and implications remain to be discovered fully. Stay tuned as this new development shapes retro gaming landscape on Apple devices.

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  • Apple faces potential strong action from EU industry chief amid App Store overhaul

    Apple faces potential strong action from EU industry chief amid App Store overhaul

    Apple Faces Strong Action if App Store Changes Don’t Align with EU Regulations

    In a significant development surrounding Apple’s response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), EU industry chief Thierry Breton has issued a stern warning, stating that Apple will face robust action if its changes to the App Store do not align with the upcoming EU regulations. The DMA, enacted in 2022, addresses alleged anticompetitive practices by major tech companies, designating them as “gatekeepers” and imposing specific obligations.

    Apple’s Compliance with DMA

    Apple’s move to comply with the DMA includes allowing software developers to distribute apps through alternative stores starting in early March. Notably, developers can opt out of using Apple’s in-app payment system, which currently charges up to 30% commissions. However, critics argue that Apple’s fee structure remains unfair and may violate the DMA, with some contending that the changes offered by Apple do not go far enough.

    Strong Action if Insufficient Solutions

    Thierry Breton emphasizes that the DMA’s goal is to open the internet gates to competition for fair and open digital markets. The assessment of companies’ proposals will commence on March 7, and strong action will be taken if the proposed solutions are deemed insufficient.

    Developers’ Options and Concerns

    Under the new regime, developers still need to submit apps to Apple for review regarding cybersecurity risks and fraud. However, developers now have the option to choose alternative app stores and payment systems. Apple has introduced a “core technology fee” of 50 euro cents per user account per year for developers opting into the new business terms.

    Apple estimates that under the new terms, 99 percent of developers would reduce or maintain the fees owed to Apple. However, larger companies with millions of free users, such as Meta and Spotify, maybe more significantly affected. Spotify CEO Daniel Ek criticized Apple’s proposed changes, describing them as ‘vague and misleading’ and accusing Apple of ‘extortion.’

    Ek points out that the 0.50 cent Euro fee per download, every year, in perpetuity, is tantamount to ‘extortion.’ He questions the need for an annual flat fee in addition to the existing commission on digital goods, raising concerns about the impact on developers, especially potential start-ups and those offering free apps.

    European Commission’s Response

    The European Commission took note of Apple’s announcements ahead of the compliance deadline and encouraged designated gatekeepers to test their proposals with third parties. In response to the DMA, Apple announced changes to iOS, Safari, and the App Store in the European Union, allowing third-party app stores on iOS for the first time.

    Future Implications

    While Apple aims to comply with the DMA, criticism persists for the perceived inadequacy and potential negative impact on developers. As the compliance deadline gets closer, the tech industry is waiting to see what happens next and how the European Commission responds to Apple’s plans.

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  • Challenges for EU Developers with Apple’s New App Store Policy

    Challenges for EU Developers with Apple’s New App Store Policy

    Apple’s Groundbreaking Decision: Allowing Third-Party App Stores on iOS

    Commencing from March this year with the rollout of iOS 17.4, Apple is introducing a groundbreaking change by permitting third-party app stores on iOS for the very first time.

    Furthermore, developers will now have the option to steer clear of Apple’s in-app payment system. This alteration signifies a significant departure from the past, as iPhone users will no longer be restricted to obtaining applications exclusively from the Apple App Store. This move by Apple is a direct response to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) enforced in the European Union.

    Apple’s New Fee Structure for Developers in the EU

    Preceding the introduction of the DMA, Apple imposed a 30 percent commission rate on most App Store transactions, such as app downloads and in-app purchases. Nonetheless, smaller developers generating less than $1 million annually were granted the liberty to pay merely 15 percent.

    Within the EU, Apple is revamping the charges applicable to iOS apps. Developers now have the liberty to select between a 17 percent commission (with an additional 3 percent if utilizing Apple’s payment system) or a 10 percent commission (plus 3 percent) designated for small businesses, a significant reduction from the earlier 30 percent.

    Structural Alterations in Core Technology Fee and Distribution

    Moreover, a new element has emerged, termed the Core Technology Fee (CTF) of €0.50 per annual installation for high-traffic apps (exceeding one million installations per annum). This charge is levied per customer account for the initial installation per year. The majority of developers will be exempt from this fee, as it pertains to a small fraction of apps.

    Despite developers now having the ability to circulate apps beyond the App Store, the CTF remains applicable once they cross the threshold of volume, irrespective of the platform. The exclusive domain over in-app acquisitions no longer stands, with a 3 percent charge in case developers opt for its utilization. Furthermore, alternative app marketplaces must also remit the CTF for downloads. Additionally, Apple will exert control over which app stores can be accessible on its App Store.

    Ramifications for Developers

    Nikita Bier, the co-founder of social-media startups Gas and tbh, emphasized that under the revamped structure, if a developer garners $10 million in revenue, Apple’s share would amount to $6.2 million annually. Factoring in presumed expenditures and taxes, the net earnings for the developer would stand at $2 million, representing a mere 20% of their overall sales.

    Bier raised a poignant concern that for numerous applications, especially those generating less than $0.57 per user, the novel fee arrangement may culminate in adverse earnings, translating to developers owing money to Apple rather than accruing profits. Consequently, Bier articulated a reluctance towards launching an app in Europe given these circumstances.

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  • Spotify Given Permission by Google to Avoid Play Store Fees

    Spotify Given Permission by Google to Avoid Play Store Fees

    Spotify’s Deal with Google to Avoid Play Store Fees

    During Google’s legal battle with Epic Games, an interesting agreement between Google and Spotify was revealed. Don Harrison, Google’s executive responsible for international partnerships, testified that Spotify had struck a generous deal with Google. Under this agreement, Spotify did not have to pay any commission to Google for users who paid their subscription fees using Spotify’s own payment method. For users who made purchases using Google’s payment method, the commission paid was only 4%.

    Google’s Privileges for Spotify

    According to Harrison, Spotify’s popularity was deemed “unprecedented” and Google believed that it was crucial for Spotify to work seamlessly within the Android ecosystem. As a result, Google granted Spotify certain privileges to ensure its smooth operation. This decision was made to prevent users from considering a switch away from Android.

    Spotify’s Criticism of Commission Rates

    Spotify has been a vocal critic of app store commission rates, particularly in the case involving Apple and Epic Games. The company has accused Apple of monopolizing the market. In fact, a few months ago, Spotify made a bold move to stop accepting payments through the App Store in an effort to avoid paying commissions to Apple.

    Overall, while the issue of app store commissions remains a topic of debate, it appears that Google has shown favoritism towards Spotify by offering a more lenient commission structure. This highlights the ongoing competition and power dynamics between app developers and the major app stores.

    Source: 1, 2

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  • Samsung received $8 billion from Google to secure its role as the default search engine, app store, and voice assistant.

    Samsung received $8 billion from Google to secure its role as the default search engine, app store, and voice assistant.

    Google’s Multibillion-Dollar Strategy to Dominate Android Ecosystem

    In a recent antitrust trial involving Google and Epic Games, significant information has come to light regarding Google’s tactics to maintain its dominant position within the Android market. A key aspect of this strategy involves its relationship with Samsung, the largest Android Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).

    A Lucrative Partnership

    According to a Bloomberg report, Google paid Samsung a substantial $8 billion over a four-year period to ensure that its key services, including Google Search, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store, remained the default options on Samsung Galaxy devices. This move was part of Google’s broader agenda to solidify its presence within the Android ecosystem and discourage OEMs from promoting competing services. For instance, Samsung has its own Bixby voice assistant and Galaxy Store, which could have potentially overshadowed Google’s offerings.

    The Crucial Role of Samsung Devices

    James Kolotouros, Google’s Vice President for Partnerships, revealed these details during his testimony. He emphasized that Samsung’s contribution accounted for more than half of the Google Play Store’s revenue, underscoring the crucial role of Samsung devices in Google’s ecosystem.

    Project Banyan: Securing Dominance

    This partnership between Google and Samsung forms part of a larger initiative by Google, known as Project Banyan, aimed at maintaining the dominance of its services on Android devices. Under this project, Google not only secured its apps’ pre-eminence on devices but also shared advertising revenue and offered incentives to OEMs for prioritizing Google’s apps. For instance, in 2020, Google proposed spending $2.9 billion, which would increase to $4.5 billion by 2023, to ensure the availability of its search, Play, and other critical apps on various devices, including those from non-Android OEMs and wireless carriers.

    Responding to Competition

    Furthermore, Google’s agreement with Samsung initially included a proposal to prevent the Galaxy Store from being placed on home screens, though this plan was later abandoned. This strategy was partly in response to competition from Apple, as Google aimed to improve the Android experience to attract potential iPhone switchers.

    Overall, the revelations from the antitrust trial shed light on Google’s multibillion-dollar strategy to dominate the Android ecosystem. By investing heavily in its partnership with Samsung and implementing Project Banyan, Google aims to solidify its position and maintain its control over key services and revenue streams within the Android market.

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  • WhatsApp’s Native Mac App Now Available Globally on the App Store

    WhatsApp’s Native Mac App Now Available Globally on the App Store

    WhatsApp’s Standalone App for Mac Now Available on App Store

    WhatsApp users on Mac can now rejoice as the standalone app for macOS is finally available on the App Store. This means that Mac users no longer have to go through the hassle of downloading it from the instant messaging platform’s official website.

    Earlier this year, WhatsApp released a beta version of its native app for macOS. However, users had to download it from the official website, which could potentially be confusing for some. Now, in a recent post on X, the Meta-owned platform, the app is available for all macOS users worldwide.

    Improved Usage Experience

    The new dedicated app version of WhatsApp for Mac is based on Mac Catalyst and aims to enhance the overall usage experience. It retains most of the features found in the iOS version, including audio and video calling, incoming notifications even when the app is closed, and the ability to star important messages.

    It is important to note that the native app is compatible with macOS 11.0 or later.

    Downloading and Installing WhatsApp for Mac

    To download and install the WhatsApp app for Mac, users can either visit the Mac App Store and search for “WhatsApp Messenger” or simply click on this link. Once on the app’s page, click on “Get” and then “Install.”

    After the installation is complete, open the app, and it will display a QR code. This code needs to be scanned using the WhatsApp app on the user’s smartphone. To do this, go to WhatsApp Settings, select “Linked Devices,” and then “Link a device.” From there, follow the prompts to scan the QR code displayed on the Mac app.

    With the availability of WhatsApp’s standalone app for Mac on the App Store, Mac users can now enjoy a seamless and convenient messaging experience directly from their desktops. Whether it’s chatting with friends, making audio or video calls, or staying updated with important messages, the WhatsApp app for Mac has got you covered.

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