iOS 17.4 Alternative App Store | How To Sideload Apps iOS 17.4/18?

What Is Sideloading?

iOS 17.4 and iOS 18 introduced a new feature that allows users in the European Union to install apps from alternative app stores, also known as alternative app marketplaces. This is a significant change for Apple, which previously required all apps to be downloaded from the official App Store.

Here are some key points to know about iOS 17.4/18 alternative app store:

• It is currently only available to users in the European Union.
• Users need to be physically located in the EU and their Apple ID country or region set to an EU country to access alternative app marketplaces.
• Apple provides tools and resources for developers to create their own alternative app marketplaces.
• If you travel outside the EU, apps downloaded from alternative marketplaces may not function.
• It's important to note that there are currently no widely available alternative app marketplaces for iOS. However, this feature has the potential to change the app landscape for iPhone users in the EU.

Is Sideloading Coming To iOS 17/18?

Yes, but the answer is a bit nuanced. Sideloading on iOS 17.4/18 is a reality, but with limitations:

• Limited Release: Sideloading is currently only available for users in the European Union (EU) due to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulation.
• iOS Version: The feature is present in iOS 17.4, not the base iOS 17 version.

So, technically, it's a significant change for users in the EU with iOS 17.4/18.

Related read iOS 17 New Features.

Pros and Cons about the iOS 17.4/18 Alternative App Store New Feature

Apple's App Store has long been the only way to install apps on iPhones. This has ensured the security of apps, however, it limited user choice by excluding innovative or niche applications. And also Apple's 30% commission on App Store purchases could inflate app prices for consumers.

The European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) is set to change this. That's why Apple have to allow users to iOS alternative app store.

This will bring a number of benefits, including:

• A wider choice of apps: Users will be able to download apps that are not available on the App Store, such as emulators, beta apps, and region-locked apps.
• Lower prices: Third-party app stores may charge lower commissions than the App Store, which could lead to lower app prices.

However, there are also some potential risks associated with iOS 17.4/18 alternative app store, such as:

• Security risks: Apps downloaded from outside the App Store may not be as secure as those from the App Store, and could pose a risk to users' devices and data.
• Poor user experience: Apps from third-party app stores may not be as well-integrated with iOS as those from the App Store, and could lead to a poorer user experience.

How To Sideload Apps iOS 17.4/18? [No jailbreak]

As we've explored, sideloading opens up a world of possibilities beyond the App Store, including accessing region-locked apps. But how to sideload apps iOS 17.4/18 safely and conveniently? The most easiest way is to find a safe and secure platform to sideload apps on your iPhone. That's where Tenorshare iCareFone comes in.

Tenorshare iCareFone is a safe and convenient iOS management tool that empowers you to sideload Apps iOS 17.4, including popular apps like BGMI, TikTok, and more, regardless of your location or App Store restrictions Those Apps undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its security and reliability. And it doesn't need to jailbreak your device, and it is quite friendly to all users.

Here's how to how to sideload apps iOS 17.4 and iOS 18 with Tenorshare iCarefone:

• Download and install Tenorshare iCareFone on your computer and connect your iPhone to it. Open iCareFone. Select the Manage tab or select the Manage Now from the Apps quick access.

  

• On the left-hand side, select the “Apps Store” menu. Here you will see a list of restricted apps available to download on your phone.

  
• Select the app you’d like to download from the list, and it will be downloaded and installed on the connected iPhone.

Be noted that this method only works if you had previously downloaded the said app on your iPhone. If you have never installed it on an iPhone using your Apple ID, you won’t be able to use this method. (Except for ChatGPT, if you download ChatGPT, there will be no restrictions)

FAQs about iOS 17.4/18 Alternative App Store

1. Is there an alternative app store for iOS?

With the introduction of iOS 17.4 and iOS 18 alternative app store in the EU to comply with the DMA regulation, users may be able to download apps from approved third-party app stores through a web browser. But still, You can download apps not available in your country through Tenorshare iCarefone effortlessly.

2. Can apps be sideloaded on iOS?

3. How do I enable sideload apps mode?

There's no built-in "sideload apps mode" on iOS. Sideloading in iOS 17.4 (EU only) involves a process that requires downloading the app file, connecting your iPhone to a computer, and using a developer profile to install the app.

4. How to install APK via sideload?

APK files are specific to the Android operating system. You cannot directly install APKs on iOS devices. Sideloading on iOS involves app files specific to iOS (.ipa format).

5. How do I sideload apps on my iPhone using Xcode?

While Xcode, Apple's developer tool, can be used for sideloading, it's a complex process intended primarily for developers. It's generally not recommended for non-technical users due to the potential security risks and the availability of easier methods.

The Bottom Line

The introduction of iOS 17.4 and iOS 18 alternative app store opens exciting possibilities. However, venturing beyond the App Store requires caution. Tenorshare iCareFone bridges this gap on how to sideload apps iOS 17.4. It provides a secure platform for downloading apps, simplifying the sideloading process, and ensuring seamless integration with your device.