According to TorrentFreak, Apple no longer allows the BitTorrent app iTorrent to be distributed through the EU's AltStore Pal alternative app market. Since July last year, applications such as iTorrent and qBitControl have been available for download on the AltStore PAL, but Torrent applications are not allowed to be listed on the official App Store.
Under the regulation of the Digital Markets Act, Apple has less control over other EU app markets. In countries/regions that provide other app markets, iPhone and iPad users can download apps outside the App Store.
iTorrent in AltStore PAL
Starting in July 2025, some iTorrent users were unable to download the app, and the app's developer said Apple had revoked its alternative distribution rights. While there are far fewer restrictions on apps distributed outside the App Store, Apple has implemented a notarization process that gives it some control over non-App Store apps.
Notarization includes a baseline review to ensure the application is free of known malware, viruses, or other security threats. Apple says it also ensures apps work as promised and don't expose users to serious fraud.
iTorrent developer Daniil Vinogradov claims that Apple gave no reason when it revoked iTorrent distribution rights. After being asked for more information, Apple gave only a general response and later said that the upgrade team was looking into the matter. Vinogradov told TorrentFreak: "I still don't know if it's my fault or Apple's, their reply makes no sense."
由于苹果没有提供 iTorrent 应用程序情况的详细信息，因此尚不清楚是否存在某些已知的安全威胁或欺诈问题导致该应用程序的分发权被撤销。
AltStore PAL also requested more information from Apple and was told that Apple was "looking into the matter." AltStore PAL has not received any warnings about torrent apps or other app categories, so there does not appear to be a blanket ban on torrent apps.