For years, one of the biggest drawbacks of using an iPhone or iPad has been the walled garden approach of iOS, making it extremely difficult to install apps from outside the official App Store. However, Apple is now being forced to loosen its grip a little for users in the European Union.
Apple and Sideloading: Getting Closer
In compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act aimed at promoting competition, Apple has unveiled a new “Web Distribution” program which should allow developers to offer their apps directly via websites instead of being limited to just the App Store.
It’s a forward step towards sideloading on iOS, bringing it closer to the openness Android has long enjoyed when installing apps from third-party sources. For EU iPhone users, this could mean more app choices and flexibility down the line.
However, the new policy also comes with some key restrictions:
- Developers must be part of the paid Apple Developer Program and in good standing
- App downloads only allowed from domains registered in App Store Connect
- Developers must disclose data practices and governmental compliance
- Apps go through a Notarization security screening process
- There are fees involved for the Developer Program membership
So no, you can’t just install any random app from any website on your EU iPhone when iOS 17.4 rolls out. But it’s a step forward that could eventually lead to more changes for an open iOS app ecosystem in the future, at least for those in Europe.
So, what’s in it for the average EU user? The most immediate impact may be improved malware protection via Notarization and other upcoming iOS security measures. Itt remains to be seen if Apple’s idea of “Web Distribution” will truly enable meaningful alternative app stores and sideloading.
Emman has been writing technical and feature articles since 2010. Prior to this, he became one of the instructors at Asia Pacific College in 2008, and eventually landed a job as Business Analyst and Technical Writer at Integrated Open Source Solutions for almost 3 years.
