Apple Issues Warning: Use of Alternative App Markets Outside EU Could Jeopardize Eligibility

Apple Requires EU Apple ID for Access to Alternative App Markets

With the recent enforcement of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple has unveiled support for alternative app marketplaces on iPhones through the iOS 17.4 update, a move eagerly anticipated by users. However, a detailed support document released by the tech giant sheds light on the eligibility criteria for accessing this feature.

Surprisingly, Apple warns users that prolonged travel outside the EU could result in the revocation of their access to these alternative markets. Moreover, during this period, pre-installed apps will not receive updates until the user returns to an EU member state.

The guidelines stipulate that to access alternative app marketplaces, users must have their Apple ID registered in an EU country or region. Furthermore, users must physically be located within an EU member state for continued access. Apple assures users that it will verify compliance with these requirements through on-device processing without collecting specific location data.

However, if a user travels outside the EU for an extended period, they risk losing access to certain features, including the ability to install new alternative marketplaces and update pre-installed third-party apps. Although Apple mentions a grace period for short-term travel, specifics regarding duration remain unspecified.

These stringent guidelines underscore Apple’s commitment to adhering to the DMA’s provisions while navigating the complex landscape of app market regulation. As users embrace the newfound flexibility of accessing alternative app stores, they must remain vigilant about adhering to Apple’s eligibility criteria, especially concerning travel outside EU borders, to ensure uninterrupted access to these services.

The post also underlined the list of countries and regions eligible for alternative app marketplaces. These are Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.

Further, Apple has also stated that it will not provide customer support in case users face issues with alternative app marketplaces. Issues around privacy and security including scams, fraud and abuse will also not be addressed by the company. Notably, no third-party app marketplaces are available for iOS at the time of writing this.