List of mobile app distribution platforms for Android and iOS

There are numerous mobile app distribution platforms for Android and iOS devices, each with its own unique features and benefits.

Google Play Store is one of the most popular platforms, with over 2.7 million apps available for download.

Developers can distribute their apps through the Google Play Store by creating a developer account and following the guidelines set by Google.

The Apple App Store has a more selective process, with apps reviewed and approved by Apple before they are made available to users.

Developers can submit their apps to the Apple App Store through the App Store Connect platform.

Amazon Appstore offers an alternative to the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, with a focus on providing a seamless shopping experience for users.

The Amazon Appstore has a curated selection of apps, with a focus on high-quality and popular titles.

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Huawei AppGallery is another major player in the mobile app distribution space, with a growing library of apps available for download.

Huawei AppGallery has a strong focus on providing a secure and stable app experience for users.

Other notable mobile app distribution platforms include Samsung Galaxy Store, Microsoft Store, and Tencent MyApp.

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Mobile app distribution platforms have become a crucial aspect of the mobile app ecosystem. The App Store, developed by Apple Inc., is a secure digital distribution channel for iOS apps.

In 2022, the Digital Markets Act (DMA) was released, and in May 2023, Apple was forced to comply with its ruling, allowing alternative app stores in the European Union. This led to the launch of several third-party iOS app stores.

The following platforms have emerged as alternatives to the App Store: AltStore, Skich Store, and Setapp Mobile. AltStore PAL, launched in 2024, specifically for the EU, allows direct installation of apps without a computer, focusing on powerful system utilities, emulators, and open-source tools.

Here's a brief overview of the top iOS app stores:

So you're looking for the benefits of using a mobile app distribution platform? Let's dive in.

You can test your app with up to 10,000 external testers without needing an enterprise developer account.

This is super convenient because you don't have to manage UDIDs and provisioning profiles for external testers, which can be a real headache.

With a mobile app distribution platform, you can even test different builds of the same app at the same time, which is really helpful for comparing features and bug fixes.

The TestFlight app takes care of notifying testers about beta updates, so you don't have to worry about keeping them in the loop.

Testers can also submit feedback through the TestFlight app, which helps you identify and fix issues before releasing your app to the public.

Expand your knowledge: Distribution List

The App Store is the official store for Apple's iOS devices, with over 2.29 million apps available for download. It's a secure distribution platform that makes it easy for users to install apps developed in the iOS software development kit.

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Apple's dominance in the mobile app market has led to the development of alternative stores. In 2024, the company was forced to open up its mobile app ecosystem in response to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) ruling.

Several third-party iOS app stores have launched in Europe, including Skich Store, Setapp Mobile, and AltStore PAL. These stores offer a range of apps, from games to productivity tools.

Here are the top iOS app stores:

These alternative stores are capitalizing on the new regulatory landscape in the European Union, which allows for competition on iOS.

There are alternative options to the traditional app stores. Google Play Store is not the only Android app store, with others like Tencent MyApp (YingYongBao) and Xiaomi Market (GetApps) offering over 1 million apps each.

Some notable alternative iOS app stores include AltStore, which allows users to sideload apps without jailbreaking, and Skich Store, a curated selection of mobile games outside the traditional Apple App Store.

Developers have multiple options for distributing their apps, including Aptoide, which offers over 1 million Android apps, and itch.io, which hosts a vast collection of indie games.

Consider reading: List of Android App Stores

Amazon Store is a viable option for developers who want to reach a large customer base, as Amazon sells a huge number of its products, including the Kindle Fire and Fire Stick.

However, competition on the Amazon App Store can be tough, especially if your app competes with major streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video.

Amazon's default reading app, Kindle, is a significant player in the market, making it challenging for new reading apps to gain traction.

Developers have a range of options beyond the major app stores. For example, Apple's TestFlight allows you to add up to 25 internal testers and 10,000 external testers, with the ability to test up to 100 apps simultaneously.

TestFlight also supports open beta testing, generating a public opt-in link to distribute your app to testers. However, builds must go through Apple's approval process before being sent to external testers.

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For enterprise users, TestFairy is a beta app distribution platform that supports cross-platform testing and offers features like video recording of sessions and in-app bug reporting.

DeployGate is another option for beta testing, offering customizable landing pages, tester account creation, and the ability to test multiple builds simultaneously. However, it lacks in-app feedback and bug reporting capabilities.

Developers should also be aware of alternative app stores beyond the major ones, such as those launched in Europe due to recent regulations. The Chinese mobile app market is also a significant player, and developers may need to consider publishing their apps on multiple stores to reach a wider audience.

Here's a comparison of some of the alternative options:

Keep in mind that each platform has its own features and limitations, and developers should carefully consider their needs before choosing an alternative option.

If you're looking for cross-platform app stores, you have several options to choose from. Bemobi Mobile Store, formerly known as Opera Mobile Store, is a longstanding marketplace offering access to approximately 200,000 apps and games.

It's particularly attractive for developers focused on emerging markets and niche audiences. The store supports both Android and iOS users via a mobile-friendly web portal and facilitates around 2 million app downloads per day globally.

Kongregate is another option, primarily focused on mobile games with a catalog of around 30 games. It's worth noting that Kongregate is available on both Android and iOS.

itch.io is a massively popular indie game platform that hosts over 1,000,000 games, supporting both Android and iOS users through browser-based access and direct APK downloads.

Aptoide is one of the largest independent Open-Source Android app stores globally, with around 1 million apps available on it. It has over 430 million users across more than 200 countries.

Here are some key cross-platform app stores to consider:

Epic Games Store expanded into mobile in 2025, offering a curated selection of around 300 high-quality games across Android and iOS (currently limited to EU iOS users).

For another approach, see: List of Free and Open-source IOS Applications

If you're looking for alternatives to the Google Play Store, you have several options. The top Android app stores besides Google Play include Tencent MyApp (YingYongBao), Xiaomi Market (GetApps), and Oppo Software Store, all with over 1 million apps available.

These alternative stores can be a good option for developers who want to reach a wider audience. For instance, Xiaomi Market (GetApps) has over 1 million apps available, which is a significant number.

Here are some of the top Android app stores besides Google Play:

These alternative stores may not have the same level of popularity as Google Play, but they can still be a good option for developers who want to reach a wider audience.

BlackBerry World is a device-dependent multimedia content service and storefront for BlackBerry smartphone users to download and install applications.

It's the official store for downloading applications from a centralized marketplace, making it easy for users to find what they need.

BlackBerry World has a wide range of application collections supporting the BlackBerry PlayBook, BlackBerry OS 7 devices, and BlackBerry 10.

This means you can find apps specifically designed for your BlackBerry device, which is a big plus for users who want a seamless experience.

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If you're looking for alternatives to Google Play, you have several options to choose from. Google Play Store tops the list with 3.5 million apps available.

You can find the next best options in various regions, such as Tencent MyApp (YingYongBao) in China, which offers over 1 million apps. Similarly, Xiaomi Market (GetApps) and Oppo Software Store also have over 1 million apps each.

Other notable alternatives include Aptoide and Amazon Appstore, which have 1 million+ and 500,000 apps respectively. Huawei AppGallery and Samsung Galaxy Store have significantly fewer apps, with 220,000 and 150,000 apps available.

Here's a list of the top Android app stores besides Google Play:

Apple's dominance in the mobile app ecosystem is being challenged by alternative app stores in Europe. The Digital Markets Act forced Apple to open up its mobile app ecosystem, allowing alternative stores to launch.

The European Union is now home to several third-party iOS app stores, including Skich Store, Setapp Mobile, and AltStore PAL. These stores are capitalizing on the EU's new regulatory landscape to offer alternative options to Apple's App Store.

Here are some of the top iOS alternative app stores:

These alternative stores are offering unique features and benefits, such as a curated selection of games, a focus on productivity and utility apps, and the ability to sideload apps without jailbreaking.

Apple has its own mobile app distribution platform, the Apple App Store, which offers applications compatible across a wide range of Apple devices.

The Apple App Store is a secure distribution platform for mobile apps, making it a popular choice among business professionals who value ease of use and security.

Gaming, business, and education are the top three most popular categories of apps sold on the Apple App Store, reflecting the diverse range of devices available from Apple.

Apple users expect apps to be easy to use and powerful at solving niche problems, which means developers must focus on creating high-quality, intuitive customer experiences.

The App Store iOS is a digital distribution channel that enables users to install apps developed in the iOS software development kit, making it easy for users to download applications using the App Store iOS.

A fresh viewpoint: List of Most Popular Android Apps

If you're looking for alternatives to the App Store, you're in luck. In 2024, Apple was forced to open up its mobile app ecosystem in the European Union due to the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which led to the launch of several third-party iOS app stores.

These new stores aim to provide users with more choices and flexibility. For example, AltStore PAL, launched in 2024, allows direct installation of apps without a computer and focuses on offering powerful system utilities, emulators, and open-source tools that Apple typically doesn't permit.

One of the key benefits of these alternative stores is that they offer more freedom in game design and marketing. Skich Store, launched in 2025, is a great example of this. It's a curated selection of mobile games outside the traditional Apple App Store, particularly targeting indie developers and mid-sized studios.

Here's a list of the top iOS app stores that have emerged:

These alternative stores are still in their early stages, but they offer exciting possibilities for developers and users alike. Setapp Mobile, for example, offers access to its entire catalog through a single monthly subscription, emphasizing privacy, no in-app ads, and predictable costs.

Let's dive into the key information about mobile app distribution platforms.

There are over 2.61 million Android apps available on the Google Play Store, according to Google Play Store Stats data.

The Google Play Store has a huge collection of apps, with more than 2.29 million iOS apps available on the App Store, according to Apple App Store Stats data.

Aptoide is the biggest cross-platform app store, with a catalog of 1,000,000 Android apps and a small collection of iOS apps.

Here's a breakdown of the market share of some popular app stores in China:

Xiaomi GetApps, Oppo Software Store, and Vivo App Store are also notable app stores, each with over 1,000,000 apps.

China has its own unique mobile app ecosystem, with a significant number of users relying on local app stores. In fact, China surpassed the United States in App Store iOS app revenue in 2016.

Huawei's AppGallery is a major player in this ecosystem, holding a 24.85% market share and serving 325 million monthly active users. Tencent's MyApp and Xiaomi's App Store also hold significant shares, with 13.15% and 12.02% respectively.

Chinese app stores are not just limited to these giants, with other notable players like Vivo App Store, Oppo Software Store, and Honor App Market also vying for market share.

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China's mobile market has become a significant player in the global mobile app economy, surpassing the United States in App Store iOS app revenue in 2016. This rapid growth is due to China's economic boom and mobile technology adoption.

Chinese app stores are critical for app distribution, with Huawei's AppGallery holding 25% of the Android OS market in China. Huawei's AppGallery has 325 million monthly active users.

The top app stores in China are dominated by local giants, with Huawei AppGallery, Tencent MyApp, and Xiaomi App Store holding the top three spots. Here's a breakdown of the top app stores in China:

These Chinese app stores have become essential for app developers looking to reach the vast Chinese market.

China has a thriving market for operator-run platforms, with many innovative companies leading the way.

The top 10 platforms in China are Didi Chuxing, Meituan, and Ele.me, which are changing the way people live and work.

Didi Chuxing, for example, is the largest ride-hailing company in China, with over 25 million drivers and 500 million users.

Meituan, on the other hand, is a food delivery platform that has grown exponentially, with over 100 million users and 5 million restaurants listed.

Ele.me is another popular food delivery platform that has expanded its services to include grocery delivery and other offerings.

The success of these platforms is a testament to China's entrepreneurial spirit and innovative culture.

China's growing middle class and increasing demand for convenient services have created a fertile ground for operator-run platforms to thrive.

These platforms have not only disrupted traditional industries but also created new opportunities for employment and economic growth.

The top 10 platforms in China are also known for their aggressive marketing strategies, which have helped them to quickly gain traction and expand their user base.

Didi Chuxing, for instance, has invested heavily in marketing and has partnered with popular brands to promote its services.

Meituan has also used social media and influencer marketing to reach a wider audience and promote its services.

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Ele.me has focused on building strong relationships with local restaurants and merchants to offer a wide range of options to its users.

By leveraging these strategies, the top 10 platforms in China have been able to build a loyal user base and establish themselves as leaders in their respective markets.

Android app stores have taken over the mobile app industry, and manufacturers are joining the fray. Major OEMs like Huawei, Samsung, and Xiaomi have their own app stores, each with a huge collection of apps.

Huawei's AppGallery boasts an impressive 220,000 apps, while Samsung's Galaxy Store has around 150,000 apps. Xiaomi's GetApps, Oppo's Software Store, and Vivo's App Store all have over 1,000,000 apps each.

The biggest cross-platform app store is Aptoide, with 1,000,000 Android apps and a smaller catalog of iOS apps.

The top manufacturer-specific app stores are:

Huawei AppGallery has a significant market share in China, with 25% of the Android app market, serving 325 million users.