Apple Confirms Sideloading and Other Major Changes for iPad in the EU This Fall

Following the European Commission's designation of iPadOS as a gatekeeper under the Digital Markets Act, Apple will introduce significant alterations to iPad functionality in the EU, including third-party app marketplaces and alternative browser support.

Apple will implement changes to iPadOS similar to those already made for the iPhone, allowing for third-party app marketplaces and alternative browser engines.
The new policies, applicable only in the EU, will enable developers to choose between Apple's existing terms or alternative business terms.
Users will have the option to download apps from sources other than the App Store and to select different default browsers and search engines.
A Core Technology Fee will be applied to downloads from third-party sources after the first million installs, with combined counts for apps installed on both iPhone and iPad.
These changes are set to roll out by fall 2024, aligning with the EU's six-month compliance window.