Apple has officially announced that it will be bringing the same app ecosystem changes that were made to iOS in the European Union (EU) to its iPadOS platform. This news comes after the European Commission recently declared that iPadOS should also be considered a gatekeeper platform under the Digital Markets Act.

EU developers will now have the ability to distribute their iPad apps outside of the App Store, using alternative app marketplaces or websites, while still adhering to the same terms and conditions. However, Apple has stated that a Core Technology Fee (CTF) will be charged for apps that are distributed outside of the App Store and have more than one million first annual installs. Despite this, small developers will be exempt from the CTF, as announced by Apple.

In addition to these changes, Apple has confirmed that if users install the same app on both iOS and iPadOS within a 12-month period, it will only count as one first annual install. This adjustment aims to support developers in staying under the CTF threshold.

It's important to note that these modifications to iPadOS, similar to those made to iOS, are exclusively applicable to developers distributing apps in the EU and to iPad users within the EU. Outside of the EU, there will be no changes, and apps will still be exclusively available through the App Store.

This move from Apple is seen as a response to the Digital Markets Act and demonstrates a willingness to adapt its business model in order to comply with EU regulations. It indicates that Apple recognizes the need to address concerns raised by EU authorities, allowing iPad users in the EU to have more freedom in choosing where to download apps, similar to Mac users.

However, questions have been raised regarding the potential caveats of installing non-Apple-app-store apps. Users are curious about the terms and conditions that Apple may include in the end-user license agreement and how this circumvention of the app store could impact the security and support of their devices.

In response to these concerns, Apple has not provided specific details on the implementation of these changes or any potential impact on device security and support. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge that the App Store itself is not immune to issues, such as the presence of scam apps as highlighted in recent reports.

The decision by Apple to align iPadOS with the app ecosystem changes in the EU has been largely praised. European users are anticipating the ability to freely download apps from alternative sources, just as they can with their Macs. The elimination of the Core Technology Fee is seen as a final obstacle to be removed for a truly open app distribution system.

While some critics may argue that this move could compromise device security, it is worth noting that many non-Apple apps are already installed on Macs without significant negative consequences. The expectation is that the experience with iPads will be similar, allowing consumers to benefit from greater flexibility in app pricing, in-app payment options, and accessing apps directly from developers.

It remains to be seen how these changes will impact the app ecosystem in the EU and whether other regions will follow suit. Nevertheless, Apple's willingness to adapt and address EU regulations showcases the company's recognition of the importance of user freedom and choice.