Apple Shocks Developers With Surprising Move In iOS 17: Sideloading Skipped

The much-awaited iOS 17 update from Apple was released on June 5, and while there were rumors that it would include the option of sideloading apps, it turns out that the App Store remains the only source for iPhone and iPad apps. Sideloading would have allowed users to install apps from alternative websites or app stores other than the App Store. However, Apple has not officially confirmed this feature or announced it at WWDC 2023.

According to a report by Indian Express, Apple whistleblower Mark Gurman had reported in December that Apple planned to allow alternative app stores on its iPhones and iPads as part of a “review aimed at meeting strict European Union requirements by 2024.” He added that these changes could be made as soon as the release of iOS 17.

In April, Gurman followed up with another report that Apple is working to “revise” its software to open up the iPhone to sideloading. However, at the WWDC event, Apple made no mention of opening iOS 17 to third-party app stores at all, and developers haven’t seen anything pointing towards such a change either.

It is possible that Apple may include sideloading with a future build of iOS 17, but for now, there are no indications. The current update reportedly continues to limit software distribution only through the App Store. There’s no scope for third-party apps from companies like Epic Games or Meta or downloading apps directly from the web like users can do on macOS.

Despite not including sideloading, iOS 17 did include several new features like contacts poster, standby mode, and video voicemails. The update also improves Siri, AirDrop and Messages. The iOS 17 developer beta is now available and the public beta will launch this fall.

In the final analysis, while many people were anticipating an end to Apple’s exclusive hold on app distribution, it seems that for now, the App Store remains the only option. It remains to be seen whether Apple will eventually open up its software to sideloading in response to user demands and changing regulations.

Source: According to authoritative sources.