The promise of open app markets for iPhones and iPads in Europe is hitting a snag. New rules, called the Digital Markets Act (DMA), mean Apple should let other app stores thrive. But a recent incident with an app called iTorrent shows Apple still holds a lot of power. This popular torrent client simply vanished from AltStore PAL, a competing app store. Apple revoked its approval without giving any real reasons. This leaves developers and users scratching their heads in confusion.
The Digital Markets Act is a big deal in the European Union. It forces Apple to open up its devices to alternative app stores. These new stores are supposed to have freedom to offer apps Apple never wanted on its own App Store. We’re talking about all sorts of tools, including things like torrent clients.
Apple still keeps some authority over these apps through a process called notarization. Apps must go through a check to make sure they are safe. This means looking for viruses, malware, or other security holes. This check is supposed to be purely technical. However, some worry Apple sometimes uses it to slow down or even block apps it simply dislikes.
AltStore PAL, one of these new marketplaces, started allowing torrent clients in July 2024. Apple has long looked down on these kinds of apps. They let users download files shared through peer-to-peer networks. This is useful for things like Linux operating system versions.
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iTorrent, a well-known client, began having problems a few weeks ago. Last month, AltStore users noticed they could no longer download it. Daniil Vinogradov, the iTorrent developer, confirmed Apple had pulled his app’s “alternative distribution.” He received no explanation. He contacted Apple many times, but got nowhere. Vinogradov said, “I still have no idea if it’s my fault or Apple’s, and their answers make no sense.”
Riley Testut, co-creator of AltStore PAL, also got no clear answers from Apple. He shared his frustration. “Despite several weeks of working with Apple, the problem remains unsolved,” Testut explained. He finds it incredibly hard to run an app marketplace. Apps can just vanish without warning, and the store owners can do nothing about it. iTorrent was one of the most popular apps in his store. Now, it’s gone, and updates can’t even be sent for approval.
Apple is playing a game of total silence here. Yet, the company is required to approve all apps on AltStore PAL and similar markets. This includes apps that Apple might not prefer. The situation raises questions about just how “open” these new app ecosystems truly are.