Once it occurs, users will forfeit access to their applications.
Once it occurs, users will forfeit access to their applications.
Setapp Mobile appeared as one of many promising alternative app markets that emerged following the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). Although the regulation might have compelled Apple to permit third-party app stores on its devices, it couldn’t ensure user adoption. MacPaw, the Ukrainian developer behind the subscription-based Setapp, announced on a support page that it would be phasing out the service next month, resulting in users losing access to all applications:
Important: Notice regarding the discontinuation of Setapp Mobile
Setapp Mobile is set to conclude on February 16, 2026, due to ongoing and complex business terms that do not align with Setapp’s existing model.
All applications associated with Setapp Mobile will be removed from the platform on this date. If you have utilized apps through Setapp Mobile, please ensure you transfer your data beforehand, as it will be inaccessible following the discontinuation.
A handful of alternative app stores remain active in the EU, including AltStore PAL and Epic Games Store. Nevertheless, they encounter a tough environment, as Apple continues to create challenges for installing apps from third-party sources. MacPaw CEO Oleksandr Kosovan informed The Verge that:
Setapp Mobile represented a daring and innovative initiative intended to give EU iOS users access to alternative app marketplaces – establishing a new app ecosystem where developers and users could flourish. We take pride in our achievements with it throughout the last two years and still hold strong convictions about this vision.
Due to ongoing commercial adjustments, we concluded that continuing development or support for Setapp Mobile is not feasible within Setapp’s current structure.
While we regret the need to end Setapp Mobile, we are eager to advance the development of other innovations. We are thrilled to concentrate on several projects set to debut later this year, including Eney, an unprecedented AI assistant designed specifically for macOS, along with new upgrades to Setapp Desktop.
Update January 17th: Included remarks from MacPaw’s CEO.
