**Epic Games Recognizes Apple’s Enhanced Procedure for Installing Third-Party App Stores**
Epic Games has recently recognized enhancements made by Apple in the procedure for installing third-party app stores on iPhones, a notable modification in view of persistent regulatory pressures, particularly from the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). This recognition follows years of criticism regarding Apple’s earlier methods, which were perceived as intentionally complicated and aimed at deterring users from installing alternative app stores.
In the past, Apple underwent antitrust scrutiny for requiring users to handle a cumbersome 15-step procedure to install third-party app stores. This exhaustive process included a “scare screen” that cautioned users about potential risks, like third-party developers accessing personal information and the unavailability of features such as subscription management and refund requests. Such alerts contributed to a high drop-off rate among users trying to install the Epic Games Store on iOS, with roughly 65% of users abandoning the process.
In reaction to the DMA’s mandates, Apple has made notable advancements in streamlining the installation procedure. The number of steps has been cut down from 15 to merely six, and the misleading scare screen has been removed. This alteration has reportedly reduced the user drop-off rate from 65% to about 25%, signifying a favorable trend as more users update to the latest iOS version.
Despite these advancements, Epic Games has highlighted that Apple’s policies still present obstacles to competition. The company contends that Apple’s actions, such as imposing anticompetitive fees and discriminatory practices against developers supporting rival stores, persist in violating the DMA. Epic underscores that these practices starkly contrast with the more open environment of Apple’s Mac platform, where such limitations are absent.
Moreover, Epic Games has criticized Google for upholding a similarly convoluted installation procedure for its own app store, which still necessitates 12 steps and features a scare screen similar to Apple’s previous model.
In conclusion, while Epic Games has acknowledged Apple’s efforts to enhance the installation procedure for third-party app stores, it continues to advocate for additional modifications to foster a more competitive environment in the app ecosystem. The ongoing dialogue between these companies and regulatory authorities underscores the changing landscape of app distribution and competition within the digital marketplace.
