AltStore PAL, a third-party iOS app store available in the EU, is now offering its services without the previous annual subscription fee of €1.50 (plus tax). This change is thanks to a "MegaGrant" provided by Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite. Initially, AltStore charged this subscription fee to cover Apple’s Core Technology Fee (CTF), which applies to third-party app marketplaces for each app install they facilitate annually.

Epic Games uses its MegaGrants to financially support innovative projects that may otherwise struggle to secure adequate funding. Typically, these grants target smaller teams using Epic’s technology to bring creative ideas to life. However, in this instance, Epic awarded the grant to AltStore for its groundbreaking approach to app distribution.

While AltStore didn’t reveal the exact value of the grant, it did confirm that current subscribers will not be charged when their renewal dates arrive. The AltStore team also hinted at offering a special gesture of appreciation for existing subscribers in a future update but left the specifics unclear.

In addition to this grant, Epic is making strides in iOS app distribution. The company recently announced that it has submitted the Epic Games Store, along with Fortnite and Rocket League Sideswipe, to Apple for final approval.

This development comes amidst ongoing discussions about third-party app stores and retro console emulators on iOS, with AltStore being a significant player in this space.