Setapp will be one of the first third-party app stores on iOS

Following the EU's adoption of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple must now enable third-party firms to build their own iOS app stores in Europe. On Thursday, software firm MacPaw revealed the beta edition of its Setapp store, which will launch in April.

Setapp distinguishes itself from typical stores by being a subscription-based platform with a library of handpicked apps. In other words, you pay a flat monthly fee for access to the store and can download as many apps as you like.

“We are setting a new path for the software industry towards a better and more diverse app ecosystem. This will offer customers more choices and a better overall user experience,” wrote Oleksandr Kosovan, CEO and Founder of MacPaw. “With Setapp our promise is simple: to offer software and tools that streamline your workflow, ignite your creativity, and amplify your impact. We carefully curate our collection, ensuring that every app, every feature, and every update aligns with our philosophy of meaningful efficiency.”

Setapp is available on the Mac App Store for $9.99 a month, providing access to over 240 apps. They include work and productivity applications, as well as artistic software like media players, icon designers, picture resizers, and video editors.

If you find yourself spending more time going through the Apple App Store looking for applications than actually installing and utilizing them, Setapp may be a good option.

MacPaw claims that the beta version of Setapp would include productivity and business tools, creative and design software, lifestyle and productivity applications, utility apps, and specialized professional tools. There is likely to be some crossover with the programs on the Mac version.