Numerous illegitimate app stores steal Apple’s thunder

There are plenty of reports of various App Stores popping up that promise to offer iPhone applications in a way other than through the actual iTunes App Store. Just this week, the Cydia store was made available for jailbroken iPhones. These App Stores—which are completely illegitimate in Apple’s eyes, I’m sure—offer to bring numerous applications that Apple won’t allow in the store, such as tethering (which is already available on the Cydia store).

Apple should be at least a little concerned about these stores. If they let them grow too big or make apps available without jailbroken phones, who knows what could happen. However, the iTunes App Store itself is doing extremely well for Apple, with hundreds of eager developers and thousands upon thousands of amazing applications. When it comes down to it, I just don’t think any other store will be able to offer what is available through the legitimate App Store experience. The apps are fully supported by Apple and the developers, and users don’t run the risk of Apple bricking their iPhones. And that’s all Apple needs to keep raking in the money.