Apple owns the iPhone brand and the App Store.
Apple introduced the first iPhone in 2007, combining a mobile phone, an iPod-style music player, and internet capabilities in one touchscreen device. The App Store followed in 2008, allowing outside developers to distribute software directly to iPhone and iPod touch users. Together, the hardware and software ecosystem became central to Apple’s business.
The App Store also helped expand Apple’s services revenue. It connects users with applications, games, subscriptions, and digital purchases, while developers gain access to a large global customer base. Apple’s control of the operating system, hardware, and store creates a tightly integrated ecosystem.
A common mix-up is attributing the App Store to Google because Google operates Google Play. Google Play serves Android devices; Apple’s App Store serves Apple platforms such as iPhone and iPad.