The update is part of broader compliance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). Earlier this year, the EU designated Apple’s iPadOS as a “gatekeeper” under this regulation, giving the tech giant six months to adapt its platform. One of the key mandates was to allow third-party app stores on iOS devices, ensuring greater consumer choice.
By opening its ecosystem, Apple now lets iPad users in the EU select default browsers and uninstall built-in apps, further enhancing user control. Moreover, the addition offers iPad users an alternative marketplace to access a range of games, complementing the established Apple App Store.
iPadOS 18: More Than Just Epic Games Store Integration
iPadOS 18 brings more than just the Epic Games Store iPadOS integration. Alongside Epic’s marketplace, users in the EU can now download apps from alternative stores like AltStore. AltStore, known for hosting retro gaming emulators like Delta, also joined the iPad platform without cost, providing even more options for gaming enthusiasts.
Apple’s Compliance with the EU Digital Markets Act
Apple’s compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act marks a significant moment in its relationship with regulators. The company, often criticized for its tightly controlled ecosystem, was forced to adapt to the EU’s new rules aimed at increasing competition and reducing the dominance of “gatekeepers” in the tech industry.
The iPadOS update comes just months after the Epic Games Store became available on iPhones in the EU, following a similar rollout on iOS devices.
Epic Games: A Victory in an Ongoing Battle
For Epic Games, this marks another victory in its long-running battle with Apple over app store policies. The company famously sued Apple in 2020, arguing that its app store fees were anti-competitive. While the legal battle is ongoing, Epic’s presence on Apple devices in the EU signals a notable shift in the gaming landscape.
The update will provide gamers access to a broader range of titles, including those not traditionally available in Apple’s store. This includes games like Fortnite. Apple removed it from the App Store after a dispute with Epic. Now, users can play Fortnite again on iPads through the third-party store.
