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What it means for users
Sideloading refers to the installation of a device without using the official app store. iPhone users need to install the apps through the App Store, but with sideloading enabled, which is not an option on iPhone, users can download apps from the web or alternate app stores.
iPhone users residing in any of the 27 countries of the European Union will be able to download and install apps from third-party sources. These apps will be available through “alternate marketplaces” or third-party app stores. Users can download any app they want, even if they violate Apple’s App Store guidelines.
However, this change is only applicable in the European Union. iPhone users in the rest of the world will still be required to download apps from Apple’s App Store.
Why Apple is enabling sideloading on iPhones
The EU’s Digital Markets Act, passed in 2022, aims to regulate big tech corporations to prevent anti-competitive practices. In September, Apple was identified as a “gatekeeper”, and its App Store, Safari browser, and iOS operating system were categorised as “core platform services” that must comply with the DMA’s regulations. So,
How will sideloading work on iPhone
iOS 17.4 will allow users to install alternative app marketplace apps. Upon downloading, users will be asked to view the apps’ information before downloading and allowing installation. Users can install marketplace apps from a website owned by the marketplace developer after approval.
iPhone users can manage their default marketplace through a new setting, allowing them to make alternative marketplace their default instead of Apple’s App Store.
The users can manage their list of allowed marketplace developers and apps and delete them at any time. Deleting a marketplace app will delete all related data from the device and stop app updates from that marketplace.
Is sideloading safe on iPhones
Apple will introduce new options for EU apps to comply with the new EU regulations for developers. However, these options also create new risks for Apple users and their devices. Apple says it will have limited ability to address app-related risks such as scams, fraud, abusive content, and harmful material exposure. Then, non-Apple WebKit browsers can negatively impact performance and user experience.
To reduce these risks, Apple will implement safeguards such as notarisation for iOS apps, so apps must meet Apple’s Notarization standards for accuracy, functionality, safety, security, and privacy. Then, there will be app installation sheets, authorisation for marketplace developers, and additional malware protection. App Tracking Transparency will remain functional outside the App Store, asking for user consent before developers track data across apps or sites.
When will sideloading be available to iPhone users
The option to install “alternative marketplaces” will be enabled in iOS 17.4, which Apple says will be released in March, as the European Union’s Digital Markets Act is going into effect. However, developers can test this in the iOS 17.4 beta already live.
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