Alternative app store AltStore PAL joins the fediverse

AltStore PAL, an innovative alternative app store for iOS, is set to revolutionize the way users interact with applications, thanks to new regulations in regions like the EU and Japan. The company has announced its integration with the fediverse, utilizing ActivityPub, the foundational technology behind popular platforms such as Mastodon and PeerTube. By launching its own Mastodon server, AltStore PAL becomes the first app marketplace to join this decentralized social network. This move allows app developers to share vital updates and news directly with users, making communication more seamless across various platforms. Users on the fediverse can follow AltStore PAL's Mastodon account, ensuring they stay informed about app updates directly in their timelines. As co-founder Riley Testut highlighted, interactions on these posts will extend to the AltStore PAL app, where users can engage with news alerts and app updates using their Mastodon or Bluesky accounts. At the outset, several apps, including Loops and PeerTube, are participating in this federated environment, with more anticipated to join once Apple finalizes changes to its commission structure in the EU. This delay stems from earlier regulatory concerns regarding payment liabilities. For those eager to explore this new platform, users can access AltStore PAL’s Mastodon server at fosstodon.org/@altstore, while the AltStore PAL explore page at explore.alt.store showcases available apps and sources. Additionally, the app itself has been refreshed with a new iOS 26 Liquid Glass design and icon, enhancing the user experience as it steps into the future of app distribution.