With the introduction of iOS 17.5 Beta 2, Apple has now introduced some very exciting features and capabilities.
Following its general release the following month, the update will be accessible for compatible iPhone models.
Apple Launches iOS 17.5 Beta With Web Distribution Feature
The option to install apps straight from developers’ websites is one of iOS 17.5’s major features.
The goal of this feature is to facilitate developers’ distribution of their apps outside of Apple’s App Store.
The second iOS 17.5 beta brought with it the capability to download apps from developers’ websites.
The EU’s alternate app marketplaces are now supported by iOS 17.4, which was launched last month. Users will soon be able to visit a developer’s website to install apps from outside the App Store, but only in the EU.
Requirements To Access Web Distribution
Not all developers will be granted access to Web Distribution by default; there are prerequisites that must be fulfilled by them. In addition to having at least one app with one million downloads in the EU, developers must have been a part of Apple’s developer program for at least two years.
They must also have a European Union domicile, be incorporated, or be registered in a subsidiary legal organization. For each app install exceeding a million in a year, Apple will charge developers a Core Technology Fee (CTF) of EUR 0.50.
The CTF costs and the membership fee for the Apple Developer Program will not apply to non-profit organizations located in the European Union. With the help of the Web Distribution functionality, developers should have additional options when it comes to reaching users and distributing their programs.
Why Has Apple Launched Web Distribution?
Apple launched this functionality in response to recent modifications pertaining to third-party app shops within the European Union. Apple made this decision as part of their efforts to allay regulatory worries and boost competition in the app distribution industry.
There will be additional options available to iOS users in the EU for accessing and downloading apps, which could result in a more varied app environment. The new functionality reflects Apple’s efforts to adapt to changing market conditions and legal constraints.
When choosing how to distribute their apps, developers will need to take into account the consequences of web distribution, including the CTF fees.
