You may have heard about the upcoming rollout of iPhone app sideloading in the EU, scheduled for the first half of 2024. In this article, you'll learn what sideloading means exactly, what changes it brings, and what potential risks it poses.
The term sideloading refers to the ability to install apps on an iPhone that do not come from the official Apple App Store. This change, which Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says will happen sometime in the first half of 2024, is being enforced by European regulations.
European regulations and their implementation
The European Union has set new rules for so-called "gatekeeper" companies like Apple with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which came into force on November 1, 2022. This forces platform providers to open their services and platforms to third-party providers and developers. The upcoming changes at Apple, including for messaging and payment apps, are expected to be part of a localized update for iOS 17.
Apple's reaction and planned measures
Gurman according to Apple plans to introduce a "highly controlled system" for sideloading in the EU in the first half of 2024. This is contrary to previous reports that predicted a sideloading feature for the iOS 17.2 update. iOS 17.2, which will be officially released in December, only has the foundation but will not activate the "feature".
Potential risks and safety concerns
Apple and many users are concerned about the potential risks of sideloading, including privacy compromise, security vulnerabilities, increased vulnerability to malware and fraud, and data tracking issues. Apple argues that sideloading could undermine security standards that are important to iPhone users.
Global Perspectives and Impacts
While the DMA regulation is specific to the EU, similar laws in other countries, such as the US, could lead to a global proliferation of alternative app stores.
Sideloading of iPhone apps – A challenge for Apple
The introduction of sideloading of iPhone apps in the EU marks a significant shift in the app distribution landscape. While this change offers new opportunities for users and developers, it also brings risks that cannot be ignored. It remains to be seen how Apple will tackle this challenge and find a balance between openness and security. Are you interested in the iPhone 15? The device is currently priced from 769 euros available. (Photo by Bigc Studio / Bigstockphoto)
