How to Sideload iOS Apps to the iPhone with AltStore
By Chip Loder | Sep 05, 2024
The European Union’s recent Digital Markets Act (DMA) has prompted significant changes in the tech industry, especially for Apple’s App Store ecosystem. One of the outcomes is the allowance for third-party app stores, which has led to the rise of innovative solutions like AltStore. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use AltStore to sideload iOS apps on your iPhone.
Understanding the Digital Markets Act and AltStore
The DMA requires device vendors to permit open app ecosystems and allows users to download apps from alternative software marketplaces. This law was a response to European countries’ complaints that Apple’s App Store was a monopoly, restricting competition. Under the DMA, device vendors must enable sideloading of apps onto mobile devices from third-party app stores.
What is AltStore?
AltStore is a third-party app store for iOS devices, created by Riley Testut, the developer of the popular Nintendo Game Boy iOS emulator, Delta. There are two versions of AltStore: AltStore PAL for EU users and a standard version for everyone else.
AltStore PAL vs. Standard AltStore
To use AltStore PAL, you must be physically in an EU country, not using a VPN, logged into an EU App Store account, and running iOS 17.4 or later. The restrictions are similar outside the EU, except you can use a VPN and any App Store account outside the EU. For users outside the EU, you’ll also need a Mac or Windows computer to run the AltServer app, which installs the iOS version of AltStore onto your device.
AltStore Installation
To install AltStore on your iOS device:
-
Download and Install AltStore:
- For EU users, visit the AltStore PAL download page and follow the instructions.
- For non-EU users, go to the AltStore downloads page, scroll to the bottom, and click the button for macOS or Windows installation instructions.
-
Ensure Requirements are Met:
- Install the Apple Music app on your Mac or Windows computer.
- Ensure your Apple device has the latest version of iOS installed.
- Enable Developer Mode on your iOS device by opening the iOS Settings app, scrolling to Privacy & Security, and enabling it.
-
Use AltServer:
- Run the AltServer app on your computer to install the iOS version of AltStore onto your device.
AltStore Limitations
One major limitation of AltStore is that due to Apple’s restrictions, you can only have three sideloaded apps installed at a time. However, you can deactivate apps you’re not using to free up space, then reactivate them as needed.
Conclusion
AltStore provides an alternative way to sideload iOS apps, especially for users in the EU who are affected by the Digital Markets Act. By following these steps, you can legally sideload apps onto your iPhone using AltStore, broadening your app options beyond what’s available in the Apple App Store.
Views: 0