EU developers can now start testing the App Store and apps that won't be published on the store

In Apple's controversial plan to comply with the European Union's Digital Markets Act, developers can now submit alternative App Store and external apps through AppStoreConnect.Apple has until March 2024 to complete changes to comply with EU DMA regulations, so the company has already started working on getting developers to start testing their apps and Marketplace.

Documents on Apple's developer website show that developers can use AppStoreConnect and its API to complete the setup, and developers who agree to Apple's new EU rules can build third-party app markets that compete with the AppStore. These stores will offer apps that are not available in Apple's AppStore, or that are not available due to Apple's regulations.

AppStoreConnect and its API have been updated to allow developers to set up marketplace distribution and marketplace apps that can be tested using Apple's TestFlight app.

Applications submitted for testing may use new alternative browser engines, alternative payment providers, and external links.

Apple is also offering online consulting and lab services for developers who need help getting started or understanding the changes. Despite Apple's extreme reluctance to embrace DMA, more than 600 new APIs are available for developers.