Apple’s long list of concessions in the European Union continues as the company confirmed that users will be able to install apps through third-party app stores on the iPad from tomorrow, September 16.
That’s the same day as iPadOS 18, which means it’s a big day for users of Apple’s tablet lineup.
Announced via a post on Apple’s developer site, starting September 16, “Users in the EU can download apps for iPadOS in the App Store and through alternative distribution.”
“As mentioned in May, if you have entered into the EU App Alternative Terms Amendment, the first annual iPadOS installs will start accruing and the lower App Store commission rate will apply.”
“Apple also says alternative browsers can be used in iPadOS apps” as it gives up at least some of its hands when the Digital Markets Act (DMA) arrives.
iPad users could get Fortnite and much more in the EU
In many ways, this is a logical next step after the same principles have already been applied to the iOS platform, but it’s still notable because it means that iOS, iPadOS and (as always) macOS will now allow sideloading – at least in Europe.
Apple was given six months to make iPadOS compatible with DMA, and the company confirmed it would commit in May of this year.
The Epic Games Store is available to EU users, meaning they can install Fortnite on iOS, but the developer has expressed interest in bringing it back to the iPad as well.