AltStore PAL is a premium utility application created by indie developers Riley Testut and Shane Gill. It's the first official third-party app store for Europe that lets users side-load applications to their iOS devices using just their Apple ID. It ensures applications are safe and come from verified sources.

Compared to other app store services like TapTap, AltStore PAL is the first truly Apple-certified platform that adheres to all its strict guidelines for proper compliance and distribution. A yearly subscription affords users access to the platform while developers benefit from a streamlined processing of payments, operating costs, and other fees.

Stiff competition

In a nutshell, AltStore PAL is an Apple-certified third-party app store made for various iOS devices, including iPhones and iPads. The notoriously strict and closed ecosystem now allows developers to publish their works outside of the purview of the App Store, which effectively makes side-loading possible for users with just their Apple ID. It also works with non-jailbroken devices, which lessens security risk and keeps those warranties intact.

This platform launches with two main applications: Delta, a Nintendo game emulator, and Clip, a clipboard manager. Similar to traditional app stores, it features categories such as Gaming, Lifestyle, and Entertainment to facilitate browsing. You can expect a blend of free and paid options, depending on the developers' choices. Still, it offers more positives than cons.

It also features integration with the fund crowdsourcing platform, Patreon, for developers who prefer to monetize their works through that route. Now, do note a couple of things before diving in, with the first being that this app is exclusive to Europe right now. Also, there are only two apps available right now, which is expected since it was just introduced recently.

Promising yet uncertain

All in all, AltStore PAL marks a big change to how Apple does its business, but more choices are always good for the consumer. Only time will tell if it will equal the tech giant's in-house offering or fall short of its lofty promises. As for right now, it's a promising new platform that could become a legitimate alternative to the App Store.