Apple might allow app sideloading in iOS 17

Apple could allow the downloading of apps outside of its official store on iOS 17 by 2024. 

According to Bloomberg, Apple is working to revamp iOS and open up the iPhone to sideloading so as to comply with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA requires all "gatekeeper" companies to "ensure open markets" by 6 March, 2024.

If and when it happens, iOS 17 users can download apps from other sources and developers can avoid paying Apple's 15 to 30% fees. Bloomberg reported in December 2022 that Apple might consider "mandating certain security requirements" to verify external apps, and could potentially still charge a fee.

Apple has been quite vocal about its stance against sideloading apps on iOS. The iPhone maker published a paper in 2021 stating its case against app sideloading. 

Source: Bloomberg

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