Soon you will be able to download apps directly from the website, Apple introduced web distribution support facility

The biggest problem for Apple users and developers is that they cannot download many third-party apps. In such a situation, Apple announced on Tuesday that it is adding web distribution support in the coming weeks, which will allow developers to distribute apps directly from their websites without installing third-party app stores.

These apps can support backup and restore functionality as well as system integration. Apple also revealed that it is changing its policies regarding support for alternative app stores in the EU, making it easier for developers to offer their apps through a dedicated app marketplace.

Information found on the website:

• Apple revealed on its developer website that an upcoming software update will add support for Web Detail in the EU. Developers will soon be able to distribute apps to users directly from their websites.
• These developers will have access to iOS application programming interfaces (APIs) to support backup and restore functions, system integration, and app detail from the web without the need for third-party app stores.
• The Apple support page for Web distribution states that developers wishing to distribute their apps directly from their websites must enrol as an organization that is incorporated, domiciled, and registered in the European Union.
• They will also need to be a part of the Apple Developer Program for at least two consecutive years, while one of their apps must have more than one million annual app downloads in the EU.

Some of the restrictions imposed:

• Apple has imposed certain limitations on these, such as the need for apps to be notarized and that developers consent to distributing apps solely through their developer accounts.
• Developers have to make sure they maintain privacy controls, publish data collection policies, and reply to company communications.
• Bear in mind apps when adhering to requests from the government to remove apps or comply with the EU's Digital Services Act and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
• If a developer decides to do this, he will also be required to pay Apple a Core Technology Fee (CTF) of 0.50 Euro, or roughly Rs 45, for every million app installs annually.