Apple has resisted permitting iOS users to install applications from outside the official App Store, unlike the more open policies of rivals such as Android.
However, new European Union (EU) regulations are now forcing Apple to support this practice known as ‘sideloading’ on iPhones and iPads in the region.
The company has expressed hesitations about introducing sideloading more broadly, but it must now facilitate iOS app installs from alternative sources under the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA).
EU Users Gain Sideloading Abilities in Upcoming iOS Update
While sideloading has been standard practice on Android devices, iOS has restricted users to apps from the official Apple App Store since the first iPhone launch.
But under the DMA requirements, iPhone and iPad users in EU countries will soon access third-party app stores to install unlisted apps.
The functionality will appear for eligible EU device owners once their gadgets update to iOS 17.4, currently in beta trials for a March 2024 public release.
So far, only the AltStore platform, which hosts emulators and other barred iOS apps, has announced definite cross-distribution plans.
However, Apple has established stringent monetary requirements for prospective app store operators. These include €1 million in banking guarantees and €0.50 for each first annual install of their marketplace app
The fees, especially, could preclude smaller vendors from participating.
Determining Qualifications and Availability of Sideloading Features
In terms of user eligibility for iOS sideloading, Apple will implement various qualification checks. Location permissions, account country settings, device type, and other attributes must reflect EU status.
The company currently restricts sideloading capabilities to EU regions only because of cited security risks and its lack of experience supporting alternative iOS app distribution channels. Nonetheless, Apple aims to enable the features for qualifying EU device owners when iOS 17.4 launches.
Both risks and anti-malware protections accompany expanded iOS sideloading. Users should proceed cautiously and avoid enabling the option if they lack technical confidence.
Compatibility of iOS Features with Sideloaded Apps:
In its iOS developer documentation, Apple notes that sideloaded apps will integrate properly with Screen Time, parental controls, Spotlight search, and similar native features.
However, features tied to financial transactions, such as Ask to Buy and in-app purchase restrictions, are anticipated not to function, given their inherent linkage to Apple’s proprietary backend.
This makes logical sense given said functionalities connect extensively with Apple’s native frameworks. Hence, anything transactional or permission-oriented loses full, dependable functionality if the app originates outside official channels.
Potential Contributors Among Third-Party App Stores for iOS
At present, AltStore with its collection of unofficial emulation and utility iOS software, has announced formal intentions to leverage sideloading permissions for cross-distribution.
However, meeting Apple’s substantial financial guarantees presents a challenge for smaller repositories.
Major incumbent outlets such as Amazon’s Appstore or Microsoft Store could possess the resources to enter iOS as alternative sources alongside AltStore. Nonetheless, even participating app developers must contribute commission fees once they reach a certain level of user uptake via sideloading.
This further demonstrates Apple’s hesitations and desire to discourage, but not prohibit outright, side distribution on iPhones and iPads within regulatory requirements.
The EU sought to enhance competition and user control, so observers must watch to see whether these goals materialize or stumble against countervailing financial obligations.
Conclusion
Apple’s hand has been forced – it must now allow iOS apps originating outside the App Store on devices located in and used within EU jurisdictions. Interested EU users can access the functionalities expected in iOS 17.4 this March.
It remains an open question whether smaller third-party app stores can overcome the significant financial requirements Apple has attached to sideloading participation. Apple has implemented these measures to mitigate potential revenue losses from enabling alternative iOS app distribution channels.
However, if sideloading gains strong adoption in Europe, it could build momentum for Apple to expand its availability more globally. Much may depend on whether the European Commission and other regulatory bodies compel broader implementation worldwide in the future.
In essence, the initial EU sideloading concession represents an important trial that could lead Apple to eventually permit the capabilities for all iPhone and iPad users, pending assessments of competitive, security, and usage impacts within more open European markets.
