In 2025, sideloading apps on iOS (iPhone) has become more accessible due to recent regulatory changes, especially in some regions like the EU. Here are the main ways you can sideload apps on iOS:
What is Sideloading?
Sideloading means installing apps on your iPhone from sources outside the Apple App Store. Unlike Android, this requires some extra steps on iOS due to Apple's ecosystem restrictions.
Common Methods to Sideload Apps on iOS in 2025
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Using AltStore
- Download and install AltServer on your Mac or Windows PC.
- Connect your iPhone to your computer via USB.
- Open AltServer and install AltStore on your iPhone.
- Sign in with your Apple ID (needed to sign apps).
- Use AltStore to install and manage sideloaded apps.
AltStore works by using a feature from Apple allowing you to install apps signed by your Apple ID without jailbreaking.
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Using Sideloadly
- Download Sideloadly on your computer.
- Connect your iPhone and trust the computer.
- Download the IPA file (the iOS app installation file) of the app you want.
- Open Sideloadly, sign the IPA with your Apple ID, and install it on your phone.
Sideloadly is popular for easily installing IPA files without jailbreaking.
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Using Xcode (For Developers)
- Download and open Xcode on your Mac.
- Create a new project or open the app source code.
- Connect your iPhone and set it as the build target.
- Compile and install the app directly on your device.
This method is mainly for developers and requires an Apple Developer account (costs $99 yearly) or a free account with app availability limited to 7 days.
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Other Methods
- Enterprise Certificates : Used mostly by organizations to distribute internal apps without the App Store.
- Third-Party App Stores : Due to legal changes like the EU Digital Markets Act, some alternative app stores are emerging.
- TrollStore : A method exploiting specific iOS vulnerabilities to allow unlimited sideloading without resigning, but limited to certain iOS versions.
Legal and Security Considerations
- In the EU, sideloading is legally required to be allowed by Apple.
- In the US, it's still limited but possible with the above methods.
- Sideloading may expose your device to security risks, so only use trusted sources.
- Some sideloaded apps might require periodic re-signing to continue functioning.
Summary
To sideload apps on iOS in 2025, you mainly use tools like AltStore or Sideloadly for easy installations or Xcode if you are a developer. Each method involves signing the app with your Apple ID and transferring it to your device, circumventing the App Store while still maintaining some security controls Apple mandates. If you want to try sideloading without jailbreaking, AltStore and Sideloadly are the easiest options to start with. Developers can use Xcode for more control and testing.
