If you've been on the hunt for an alternative to the iOS App Store, you've likely hit a wall due to Apple's stringent control over its ecosystem. However, the landscape is changing. Following years of legal battles, the doors began to open last year, and after the launch of the Epic Games Store on iOS, another contender has stepped into the ring: Aptoide.

For those with a keen memory, you might remember our coverage of Aptoide's initial beta back in mid-2024. Now, the wait is over for EU iOS users who can download Aptoide for free and explore its offerings. While Aptoide boldly claims to be the first alternative storefront on iOS, it's worth noting that the Epic Games Store beat them to the punch by a few months in terms of full release.

What sets Aptoide apart, however, is its diverse range of offerings. Unlike the Epic Games Store, which focuses primarily on gaming, Aptoide provides a broader selection of apps. Moreover, they introduce an innovative feature allowing users to choose the version of an app they wish to use—a functionality that was previously exclusive to Android users and now available on iOS through Aptoide.

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While my initial remarks might hint at skepticism, I genuinely believe Aptoide has a strong case for being the first alternative app store on iOS, especially considering its beta period. The Epic Games Store, while a third-party option, is backed by a major industry player, whereas Aptoide offers a more general, third-party storefront experience.

For those of us who have been following the Epic vs. Apple saga and the gradual opening of iOS to more app stores, this is a promising development. Now, the real test will be to see if Aptoide can capture the interest of those dissatisfied with Apple's offerings. We'll be watching closely to see how this unfolds.