Best 3rd Party App Stores Alternative for iOS & Android

Are you tired of the never-ending restrictions and limitations the official App Store imposes for iOS users? Are you looking for better flexibility and variety in the apps you can access? We’ve got you covered! We understand these challenges as an app development company and have curated the best alternative app stores for iOS users.

Explore a vibrant universe of app ecosystems beyond Apple and Android with key players like Amazon Appstore, boasting over 600,000 apps tailored for Kindle and Fire devices. Samsung Galaxy Store offers a diverse range of apps and themes for Galaxy devices; Huawei AppGallery, is a major contender with 530 million monthly active users and a plethora of apps spanning gaming, lifestyle, and productivity.

So, say goodbye to strict policies and delays in app approvals. With our recommended app stores, you’ll experience a whole new world of possibilities and accessibility tailored to meet your needs and preferences. 

Why Use an Alternative App Store?

Finding new apps is just one way to begin exploring the possibilities of the app store alternative for iOS users. It’s about discovering an entirely new universe of advantages and possibilities. Although Google Play and the App Store dominate the market, other 3rd party app stores have distinct benefits that are difficult to overlook.

Let’s begin with savings. Many alternative app stores provide discounted premium versions of apps and lucrative deals you won’t find on Google Play or the App Store. Plus, there’s often no uploading fee, and they actively promote apps through features like “app of the day” showcases and advertising discounts. This means more visibility and potential revenue for your app.

But it’s not just about money; it’s about reach and ranking. With the significant stores overflowing with apps, alternative stores give developers a better chance to rank higher and stand out. They also provide a platform for testing minimum viable products (MVPs) without the upfront costs associated with Google Play and the App Store’s registration fees.

Moreover, some alternative stores curate their offerings, focusing on quality, specific demographics, or niche markets. If your app targets a particular region or audience, these stores can be a goldmine for reaching your ideal users.

Let’s not forget the allure of modified apps. For those who love customized experiences, alternative stores offer a treasure trove of modified versions that may never see the light of day on mainstream platforms.

Of course, with great benefits come potential risks. The primary concern is security; not all alternative stores like Google and Apple have robust safety measures. There’s also the risk of encountering illegal apps or unclear processes. That’s why it’s crucial to read the terms and conditions of any alternative store carefully.

So, why should you consider alternative app stores? They offer unparalleled opportunities for visibility, revenue, and tailor-made experiences. And if you’re ready to jump in, we’ll guide you on how to market and promote your app effectively, whether it’s your first venture or a new addition to your app portfolio. Let’s unlock the full potential of your apps together!

Best iOS App Store alternative

1. Altstore

Among the best third-party tweaked app stores for iOS devices, AltStore works without jailbreak. This app store doesn’t rely on developer certificates, which sets it apart from other unofficial app installers, such as TutuApp and TweakBox. The app allows users to install .ipa files from any app/game they are looking for and is not available on Apple Store. Riley Testut is the Altstore developer, and right now, there are just a few apps, but it’ll be supporting more apps. You can download IPA files and install them using AltStore. Meanwhile, to use AltStore, users will require downloading AltServer and an advanced firewall and Wi-Fi settings knowledge. Besides, the platform requires a Wi-Fi connection for installing and updating apps. 

Features

• Installation of third-party apps
• Offers open-code
• Free and paid modded apps
• Games
• Emulators at no cost

2. Scarlet

It stands as a pioneering alternative to AppStore and Cydia, boasting advanced features, a visually captivating interface, and extensive accessibility options. Offering lightning-fast signing, tweak injection, progress updates, and backups—all accessible from any device and soon, the web—Scarlet ensures a seamless user and developer experience like never before.

Features

• Jailed Tweak Injection
• IPA Sideloading
• App Management
• Repo System
• Computer Method
• Modern GUI
• Certificate Management

3. Sidestore

Sidestore offers a seamless sideloading experience, requiring no jailbreak or computer after the initial installation. With just a WiFi connection, users can access this alternative app store, simplifying the process of installing apps outside the official channels and enhancing convenience for iOS users.

Features

• Installation of any app
• Verified sources 
• Games 
• Emulators
• VPN Trickery 
• Seamless sideloading 

4. AppDB

This is An automated app design and development platform, gaining popularity with iOS and macOS users for app installation on non-jailbroken devices. Hosting a vast database of 100,000+ iOS and Cydia apps, it serves as a comprehensive hub for app enthusiasts, offering a one-stop solution for accessing a wide range of applications.

Features

• iOS and macOS Apps
• No app store restrictions 
• EU Digital Market Act Compliance
• Sideloading support 
• No jailbreak 

5. Buildstore

This platform is among the most-used third-party tweaked app store having more than 30K daily active users. Operating steadily since 2013, iOS users can sideload tweaked apps & games without jailbreak. Today, it is a safe and reliable store with more than 300 games and apps updated constantly. Around 20-30 new apps are added monthly. Few of these apps are on the Apple Store, making BuildStore a unique place to access those apps. The store doesn’t host malware, and it doesn’t accept apps with viruses. Also, all the apps go through a manual testing procedure, and it is impossible to damage your device as you use BuildStore. 

BuildStore enables users to access applications and games rejected by Apple, offering an array of secret features and extended functionality, such as exclusive gaming emulators. Unlike free tweak stores, BuildStore requires a monthly subscription, providing value through its extensive archive and premium services for iOS users seeking unique experiences.

Features

• Emulators 
• Modified games
• Social media
• Moderated app library 
• Flat pricing 

6. Appvalley

An iOS app store alternative, boasting a plethora of tweaked applications, including top-ranked unlocked games and modified apps like Snapchat++. Its key advantage lies in providing safe and secure access to these offerings, ensuring a reliable and enjoyable experience for users seeking enhanced functionalities on their iOS devices.

This app store alternative allows users to download various apps, games, ringtones, emulators, improvements, and a lot more for free. AppValley is a safe and reliable platform that offers constant updates. It works on iOS 17+ without interfering with the security features provided by Apple. Downloading this app doesn’t require jailbreaking the device. 

Features

• No jailbreaking 
• Free to download
• User-friendly app interface 
• Wide variety of games 
• Screen recorders
• Safe and Legal 

7. AppCake

A native iOS application that facilitates the installation of IPA files on your device. it offering a wide variety of applications without any in-app advertisements. Its standout feature is the extensive collection of ad-free apps, providing users with a seamless and uninterrupted experience while using their iOS devices.

Features

• User-friendly app
• Thousands of apps and games
• Flexibility to install 
• Tweaked versions 
• No jailbreaking 
• Ad free experience 

8. Tweakbox

This third-party app store is an alternative for iOS. The users can install any modified app without the Apple app store. It is easy to use and has a quite attractive design. Tweakbox consists of various apps & games that are not easily found on the official Apple app store. It comes with encrypted SSL, and here you get all apps and games for free. Tweakbox supports all iPhones and iPads. 

Features

• More than 2000 apps & games
• No jailbreaking required
• Modified new features
• Constantly monitored
• User-friendly 
• Cost-free

9. Xabsi

Xabsi is an alternate app store for iOS that supports all the latest iOS versions and iDevices. It stands out as a top-tier alternative to the App Store, granting users access to hacked applications, games, and jailbreak features. It also showcases popular alternative app stores, enriching the selection of digital products available. Additionally, Xabsi offers system apps for iOS customization and is compatible with all iOS devices.

Features

• Alternative jailbreak solutions 
• App installation solution
• Customization
• Popular Apps and games
• No Jailbreaking 

10. Sileo

Sileo is a more contemporary alternative to Cydia. It is mostly made for jailbroken iOS devices. Its slick and intuitive interface makes finding and installing changes, themes, and adjustments simple. It offers users who want to improve and customize their iOS devices a seamless experience with sophisticated features like package management and repository management.

Features

• Fast & efficient 
• No jailbreaking 
• Sleek
• Compatible 
• Open source 

Best 3rd Party Android App Stores 

1. Amazon Appstore

This is a leading alternative to Google Play, and boasts cross-platform analytics and developer-friendly navigation. With a generous revenue share of nearly 70%, compatibility testing, and rewards like Appstore Developer Select, developers benefit from enhanced visibility and customer acquisition opportunities. Plus, users enjoy a free paid app or game daily.

Features

• Scheduled deliveries
• Refunds
• Camera product searches
• Subscriptions 
• Digital dash buttons 
• Prime benefits 
• Donations 

2. Galaxy Store

Unlike the Google App Store, the Samsung Galaxy Store requires a Samsung user account for access and downloads. It amalgamates beloved features from Galaxy Apps and Galaxy Themes, crafting a tailored digital marketplace for individual users. With a diverse app collection, users can customize their digital experience to align with their lifestyles.

Features

• Wide collection of app games & themes
• Promotion& Deals
• Game centric features
• Customization options 
• Watch customization
• Exclusive content 

3. HUAWEI AppGallery

This AppGallery serves as the official app distribution platform for HUAWEI devices, offering a curated collection of 18 app categories with premium global content. Ensuring seamless usage across smart devices in various scenarios, it prioritizes security without compromise, providing users access to apps anytime, anywhere.

Features 

• Lightweight apps
• High-security measures
• Download apps from the app gallery
• Exclusive gift packs
• Diverse app rankings 

4. F-Droid

Built on the F-Droid repository, this platform enables users to discover open-source Android apps. With a categorization of over 1,200 apps akin to Google Play, users can swiftly find trending applications, enhancing their exploration experience.

Features

• Ethics and morals
• Free and open-source software
• Operates independently from Google
• Sideloading 
• Latest apps
• App discovery & installaitons 

5. APKMirror

This platform is dedicated to Android enthusiasts. It provides a vast collection of games, apps, wallpapers, and launchers for all Android devices. Users can explore the latest releases, access comprehensive tutorials, and delve into popular apps to gain a deeper understanding of their functionalities.

Features

• Safe 
• Support for installing OBB files
• Ability to sort, filter, and search files
• Built-in support

6. APK Pure 

APKPure provides discounted prices on paid games and offers an accessible developer console for geo-restricted apps. 

Features:

• Discounted paid games
• Easy-to-use developer console
• Access to geo-restricted apps

7. Aptoide

It stands as a notable alternative to Google Play, delivering quicker updates and access to geo-restricted Android apps available on Google Play. In-store purchases are facilitated through AppCoins (APPC). Moreover, Aptoide provides a personalized recommendation system and the option to create a customized app store on your website. With a vast repository of over 1 million apps and exceeding 7 billion downloads, Aptoide offers a diverse and dynamic app ecosystem.

Features 

• Community driven stores
• App management & updates
• Open source 
• App coins integration
• Game of the week
• Wide app selection 

8. Aurora Store

it is an open-source Google Play Store client. it offers a free Android app store alternative, enabling users to download apps without a Google account. It hosts a wide range of apps, proprietary and nonproprietary alike. AuroraStore prioritizes transparency by allowing users to check app trackers and ads before downloading. Developers must first publish apps on the Google Play Store and list them on AuroraStore.

Features

• FOSS License
• Impressive design element
• Exodus privacy integration
• Updates blacklisting 
• Account login options 

9. Tap Tap

A prominent hub for game apps originating from the Chinese market. Featuring an advanced search engine, it aids gamers in discovering top-notch games. The TapTap community offers in-depth reviews on the latest releases, fostering lively discussions on gameplay and blockbuster titles.

Features

• Massive game library
• Developer communities
• Diverse verticals 
• Pre-registered games
• Community interaction
• Double-tap gestures

10. AppBrain

This app market offers chances to acquire premium apps for free or access top-paid Android apps at notable price reductions. It features a range of app promotion tools within its browser-based mobile store, allowing brands to enhance visibility across different mobile app platforms.

Features:

• Small SDK size
• Easy integration
• Search and fetch app information
• App monetization
• App Promotion

Best Cross-platform App Store Alternatives

1. MyAppFree

This is a gateway to a diverse realm of apps, games, wallpapers, and icon packs, offering money-saving opportunities through time-limited offers. Tailored to user interests, it curates a personalized list of apps and games, continually refining recommendations with each download for a more customized experience.

Features

• PRO versions 
• Discounts 
• Premium skins 
• Advanced content 

2. TuTu App

Jailbreak is a free app store created for iOS and Android devices. It enables installing apps & games from the official Apple Store for iOS and Google Play Store for Android devices. The app offers many features that allow getting paid apps directly for free. Jailbreaking the iOS device is not needed to install this platform. 

Reaching over 300 million users globally, this platform streamlines app submission and provides access to diverse banking systems and cooperative SDKs, ensuring a smooth and efficient development and distribution process for developers targeting a wide international audience.

Features 

• No need to root
• Exclusive apps
• User-friendly interface
• Multi-platform support
• Regular updates 

3. Itch.Io

This platform caters to gamers and game developers with its extensive selection of games and paid and free content, including books and development tools. It aims to provide a comprehensive range of options beyond just games, attracting a diverse user base interested in various digital offerings.

Features

• Diverse browsing options 
• Fantastic community
• Games library
• Game creation tools

4. Mobile9

It operates akin to a social network, boasting a high download rate and a low percentage of active developers. The platform offers free app publishing, creating an accessible and engaging environment for both users and developers to explore and share digital content.

Features 

• Free applications & games
• Download songs
• Modification of wallpapers and ringtones 
• Animation and high-definition wallpaper

5. Panda Helper

This platform surpasses Android and iOS by offering emulators, themes, and file managers not found in major stores. Additionally, users can conveniently update their apps directly through the platform, enhancing accessibility and user experience.

Features 

• Easy to use
• Wide selection of apps
• No jailbreaking 
• Cross-platform compatibility
• Fast Download
• Security 
• Regular updates 

Are Alternative App Stores Safe?

While alternative app stores for iOS and Android can be safe, inadequate management may elevate privacy, safety, and security risks for both users and developers. It’s crucial to ensure proper oversight and security measures to mitigate potential threats and safeguard the digital ecosystem.

How To Publish & Promote Your Apps In Third-Party Stores

Unlock the potential of third-party stores by strategically publishing and promoting your app:

• Research and cherry-pick from top-tier platforms like Amazon, APTOIDE, Appszoom, GETJAR, Opera Mobile Store, Mobango, SlideME, and 1MOBILE1 to find the perfect fit for your app.

• Elevate your app’s presence by signing up for free developer accounts on these chosen platforms. You’ll gain access to powerful publishing tools that amplify your reach.

• Ensure your app shines by meeting each store’s unique requirements, including compatibility checks, adhering to content guidelines, and exceeding quality standards.

• Craft an irresistible package by uploading your app with compelling metadata, such as captivating descriptions, strategic keywords, enticing screenshots, and competitive pricing details.

• With strategic placement and a compelling package, your app is poised to captivate audiences and skyrocket its success in the dynamic world of third-party stores.

Promoting Your App

Maximize your app’s visibility and allure with these powerful promotion strategies:

• Create engaging descriptions incorporated with relevant keywords. Ensure your app shines in in-store searches and catches the eye of eager users.
• Maximize the power of social media to create buzz around your app, engage potential users, and drive traffic straight to your app’s store page.
• Cultivate a positive reputation by encouraging satisfied users to leave positive reviews and ratings. this will boost your app’s credibility and propel it up the rankings.
• Create excitement and draw in new users with enticing discounts or free trials, creating a buzz that sets your app apart and leaves a lasting impression on users.

How Can EmizenTech Help You With App Store Alternatives for iOS and Android?

EmizenTech, a leading mobile app development company, is your trusted partner in paving your way across the complexities of app store alternatives for both iOS and Android platforms. Our comprehensive services ensure that your app ideas not only stand out but are also accessible globally. Here’s how we can help you:

• Promotion Across Various Platforms: We’ll promote your app across diverse platforms. this ensures it reaches the right audience and garners maximum visibility.
• Global Availability Through Multiple App Stores: Expand your app’s reach globally by submitting it to multiple app stores. Our objective is to maximize exposure and user base.
• Effective App Marketing: Our specialized marketing strategies highlight your app’s unique features, creating social media buzz and influencer partnerships to make your app shine in the tech world.
• Compelling Landing Page Design: Impress potential users with a visually appealing and persuasive landing page. This page clearly communicates your app’s value proposition, increasing user conversions.

Conclusion 

So, with all these options, how do you choose? The truth is, you don’t have to. Free app markets like those mentioned can’t replace giants like Google Play and the App Store; they’re more like extra channels for more downloads.

However, for tech-savvy users with specific needs, app store alternatives offer a platform beyond the mainstream options. They can also be a boon for developers who are not ready for the intense competition of the leading stores.

Before diving in, remember to research security risks and prioritize your goals. Know your audience, explore filtering options and leverage offers from alternative stores. With a clear plan and awareness of your needs, you’ll navigate the app store landscape confidently!

Frequently Asked Questions