Why can’t you play Steam games on consoles? Because Sony and Nintendo don’t want you to. It’s their device. Their rules. And Apple has the same protection on iOS devices. Computers have always been treated differently. IOS are powerful tools indeed but they were built to perform mobile tasks better.There are reasons beyond the cut Apple takes for wanting alternate app stores.
My primary computing devices are a Google Pixel phone, an iPad, a MacBook Pro, and a Windows 11 PC.
When I buy games on Steam, I can play them on my MacBook and my PC. Why can't I do the same with my phone and my tablet? Maybe all four?
Apple won't carry some kinds of apps, including emulators and some adult content, including games that are less explicit than what is allowed on streaming video apps in the App Store. Some countries may have restrictions on apps that Apple would otherwise allow.
You have a choice if you want open mobile apps. Android.
because when Apple entered and turned the phone market upside down, other apps didnt exist.Because Apple decided it was different?
every vendor provided an OS and some apps they developed. in house or bought in.
Apple entered a new market with a clean slate to work with.
even Android initially arrived with Google apps built into the OS.
only later, after Jobs was persuaded to allow them, did external apps arrive with an App Store.
And Android pivoted and went the same way but open slather on loading from anywhere.
Apple has always been clear that Mac, iPads and iPhones are complimentary devices with different features for different users and uses.