Sideloading apps on iPhone will be possible for EU users in the first half of 2024

According to a new report by Bloomberg reporter Mark Garman, iPhone users in the European Union will be able to download apps outside of the App Store in the first half of 2024. In order to comply with EU laws, Apple provides sideloading functionality to European users, and users in other countries, including Iran, will not be able to access it.

according to Bloomberg report, EU users will no longer depend on the App Store to install apps from the first half of 2024. Additionally, developers may be able to circumvent Apple’s 15-30% fee, although it seems unlikely that the Cupertinos will waive their fee so easily.

Sideloading with a controlled system

According to Garman, Apple will introduce a highly controlled system for EU users to allow app installation outside of the App Store.

Garman’s report contradicts a recent report that mentioned the addition of sideloading functionality to the iOS 17.2 update. The iOS 17.2 update is expected to arrive next month, but a new Bloomberg report says the feature will be available to EU users in the first half of 2024.

The EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which took effect on November 1, 2022, forces tech giants, or “gatekeepers,” to make their services and platforms available to other companies and developers.

The DMA rule has a significant impact on Apple’s platforms and could lead to significant changes in the App Store, Messages, FaceTime, Siri and other Cupertino products.

Apple claims that sideloading apps can compromise users’ security and privacy, leaving people vulnerable to malware and fraud. That said, Apple must comply with EU rules or face fines of up to 20 percent of its global revenue.

Finally, it should be emphasized again that sideloading apps on iPhone and iPad will be available only to EU users at least initially.