The much-anticipated iOS 17.4 update has brought significant changes to the iPhone user experience, particularly for those in the European Union. One of the standout features of this update is the introduction of alternative app marketplaces, offering users the ability to install apps from sources other than the Apple App Store.
However, a recent discovery has revealed a catch for EU users who wish to take advantage of these new marketplaces while traveling. According to a support document uncovered by MacRumors, access to these alternative app sources is contingent on the user's location and Apple ID settings.
Specifically, the document states that to access these marketplaces, the user's Apple ID must be set to a country within the European Union, and the user must be physically present in an EU country. This means that if an EU user travels outside the EU, they may encounter limitations on their ability to utilize these alternative app sources.
Apple clarifies that users departing the EU temporarily will retain access to the alternative app marketplaces for a grace period. However, if the user remains outside the EU for an extended period, they may lose the ability to install new marketplaces or update existing apps sourced from these platforms.
While apps already downloaded from alternative marketplaces will continue to function post-grace period, they will not receive updates from the original marketplace. The duration of this grace period remains unspecified, prompting questions about the exact timeframe before restrictions are imposed.
As the new marketplaces prepare for launch, companies like Mobivention in Germany and MacPaw are gearing up to introduce their platforms to EU users. Epic Games has also announced plans for its marketplace, although a launch date has yet to be confirmed.
For EU users eager to explore the expanded app ecosystem offered by iOS 17.4, understanding the implications of traveling outside the EU is crucial to avoid any disruptions in app access and updates.
