Macpaw has launched the open beta of Setapp Mobile in the EU

iPhone users in the European Union can now access a curated selection of apps through Setapp Mobile, a new way to discover and use apps outside of Apple’s App Store. The open beta version offers a select selection of 50 lifestyle and productivity apps, all accessible through a single subscription, according to Macpaw.

Apparently great interest in iOS app marketplaces

According to the company, the launch of Setapp Mobile follows the implementation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) by the European Union, which opens the door to alternative app marketplaces. Macpaw’s latest report “iOS Market Insights for EU” highlights the growing trend and market opportunity for such marketplaces and shows that 80 percent of iPhone users and 60 percent of developers would be willing to try third-party app stores.

Back in March of this year, we reported on the launch of Setapp Mobile in the EU, at that time only by invitation in a closed circle. At that time, the number of available apps was also relatively manageable, but now, as mentioned, there are supposed to be over 50. Similar to Setup for macOS (with significantly more apps), you have access to these as part of the subscription – with no in-app purchases or hidden fees, as the developer promises. The popular apps that are still available include Macaw’s CleanMyPhone and ClearVPN, as well as apps like Riveo, BusyCal and Awesome Habits, but also Paste and Ulysses. An overview of all apps for Mac, Web and iOS specifically can be found here.

Combined subscription for Mac and iOS – and a new one just for mobile

To use Setapp Mobile, you need at least iOS 17.4 and an Apple ID linked to an EU member state. According to Macpaw, current Setapp EU subscribers with “Power User” or “AI Expert” accounts will automatically receive access to Setapp Mobile at no additional cost. Users on other plans can upgrade to “iOS Advanced,” “Power User,” or “AI Expert” to continue using Setapp Mobile. Please note: existing beta users will lose their access on September 17.

New EU subscribers can try the iOS Advanced plan for free for seven days. After that, they can sign up for a combined subscription for Setapp for Mac and iOS for $12.49 per month. However, in parallel with the launch of the Setapp Mobile open beta, Setapp will also be releasing a new subscription plan for users who only want access to the iOS apps and marketplace. The plan will be called iOS Advanced and will also be released on September 17.

To join Setapp Mobile, select this link. Developers interested in bringing their apps to Setapp Mobile can apply here.