The End of Mobile Walled Gardens: Strategic Playbooks for the Sideloaded App Era

Opening the Doors: The Impact of Digital Markets Act on Mobile Growth

The world of mobile apps is undergoing a seismic shift. With the enforcement of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in Europe, the traditional gatekeepers of the app ecosystem are losing their stronghold. This regulatory change mandates platforms to open their doors, allowing for more sideloading of apps. As this new era dawns, it is not just European markets that feel the tremors. The ripple effects are set to reshape global mobile strategies. At Alchemy Avenue, we see this as a unique opportunity for brands to think beyond the App Store and Google Play, and explore broader horizons for growth and user engagement.

Beyond the Monopoly: New Avenues for User Acquisition

For years, the App Store and Google Play have been the epicenters of user acquisition. However, the sideloading era is breaking these monopolies. Brands now have the chance to reach users directly, bypassing traditional app stores. This opens up a world of possibilities for creative marketing strategies. It’s about crafting unique experiences and direct relationships with users. Alchemy Avenue helps brands leverage these opportunities, developing user acquisition strategies that break free from conventional models and embrace new, more personalized avenues.

Discovery Decentralized: Winning in a Fragmented App Market

As apps become more accessible outside the traditional stores, the challenge of discovery becomes paramount. In a decentralized ecosystem, brands must find innovative ways to stand out. It’s about being visible in a sea of options and capturing user attention. Alchemy Avenue guides brands in crafting strategies that enhance app visibility and discovery, ensuring they are not lost in the shuffle. By focusing on unique content and strategic partnerships, brands can navigate this fragmented market effectively.

Monetization Reimagined: Innovating Subscriptions and Partnerships

With new distribution channels come new monetization models. The era of sideloading invites brands to rethink how they generate revenue. This could mean exploring subscription models, innovative payment systems, or partnerships that weren’t possible before. Alchemy Avenue assists brands in reimagining their monetization strategies, helping them tap into new revenue streams while maintaining strong user relationships. By leveraging these new opportunities, brands can ensure sustainable growth in this shifting landscape.

Owning the Relationship: Strengthening First-Party Data Strategies

With the ability to sideload apps, brands have a golden opportunity to strengthen first-party relationships. Direct user engagement means more control over data and interactions. This shift empowers brands to own their user relationships more fully, allowing for tailored marketing and personalized experiences. Alchemy Avenue is at the forefront of helping brands develop robust first-party data strategies, ensuring they can maximize these new capabilities to enhance user engagement and loyalty.

Preparing for the Next Wave: Future-Proofing Your Brand’s Strategy

As the world adapts to these regulatory changes, it’s crucial to anticipate what comes next. The DMA may be just the beginning, with similar regulations potentially spreading to other regions. Brands need to build flexible, forward-thinking strategies that can adapt to future changes. Alchemy Avenue partners with brands to develop strategic playbooks that are resilient and adaptive, ensuring they remain competitive in the ever-evolving mobile ecosystem.

Picture of Ohad

Ohad

Ohad Galitz is the co-founder of Alchemy Avenue, a boutique consultancy transforming data into growth for digital brands. With over a decade of experience in performance marketing, analytics, and product strategy, Ohad specializes in uncovering overlooked opportunities and turning complexity into clarity. He has worked across industries—from healthtech to mobile apps—helping companies scale through smart experimentation, storytelling, and a deep understanding of user behavior. When he’s not building marketing magic, you’ll find him geeking out over creative campaigns or exploring life’s next great adventure.
Picture of Ohad

Ohad

Ohad Galitz is the co-founder of Alchemy Avenue, a boutique consultancy transforming data into growth for digital brands. With over a decade of experience in performance marketing, analytics, and product strategy, Ohad specializes in uncovering overlooked opportunities and turning complexity into clarity. He has worked across industries—from healthtech to mobile apps—helping companies scale through smart experimentation, storytelling, and a deep understanding of user behavior. When he’s not building marketing magic, you’ll find him geeking out over creative campaigns or exploring life’s next great adventure.

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