Apple has finally taken a bold step that could change how we access its ecosystem: bringing its App Store to the web. For years, the App Store was locked behind Apple’s mobile app, but now, anyone—yes, even Android users—can browse it directly from their browser. This move, first reported by 9to5Mac (https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/03/apple-launches-rich-new-web-interface-for-the-app-store/), marks a significant shift in Apple’s traditionally closed ecosystem. But here’s where it gets controversial: why did it take so long, and what’s the real motive behind this change?
Previously, visiting apps.apple.com (http://apps.apple.com/) on a non-Apple device would lead to a dead end, but now it opens a fully functional web version of the App Store. The site mirrors the app’s design but adds a handy drop-down menu in the corner, categorizing apps for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and even the futuristic Vision Pro (https://au.pcmag.com/vr/103777/apple-vision-pro) headset. Plus, there’s a search bar to make finding apps a breeze.
But this is the part most people miss: the web version still feels like a work in progress. For instance, you can’t log in with your Apple ID, and there’s no way to remotely install apps on your devices—a feature Google Play Store users have enjoyed for years. Instead, clicking “install” simply redirects you to the App Store app on your device. Even sharing an app link from a Mac to an iOS device requires manually copying a URL via the “share” button.
Apple hasn’t commented on why they made this move or why it took so long, leaving us to speculate. Is this a step toward greater accessibility, or a strategic play to compete with Android’s web-based app ecosystem? Last year, Apple also launched web versions of Apple Maps (https://au.pcmag.com/gps-navigation/106471/apple-maps-is-now-available-on-the-web) and Podcasts (https://au.pcmag.com/podcasting/106858/apple-brings-podcasts-app-to-the-web), hinting at a broader trend.
Here’s the big question: Is Apple finally opening up, or is this just a half-measure? Let us know what you think in the comments—do you see this as a game-changer, or just a long-overdue update? And more importantly, what features would you like to see added to make the web App Store truly competitive?
