ios 17

The AppStore has been the go-to platform for iPhone users to download their favorite apps since its inception in July 2008. With just 500 apps at launch, it has grown significantly and now offers around 1.8 million apps for iPhone users worldwide. However, there have been some limitations, such as not allowing sideloading of apps on iPhones, which has led to many debates among tech enthusiasts. But recent reports reveal that Apple could be taking a historic step and allowing sideloading of apps on iPhones after the rollout of the iOS 17 update.

What is Sideloading?

Sideloading refers to the process of installing apps on a mobile device from sources other than the official app store. In the case of iPhones, it means downloading apps from alternate app stores or installing them directly from the developer’s website. So far, Apple has not allowed sideloading on iPhones due to concerns about malware and security breaches. However, it looks like this could be changing with the iOS 17 update.

Region Specific Feature

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple could allow sideloading of apps on iPhones with the iOS 17 update, but the feature could be region-specific. In other words, it might be limited to Europe only to comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). Gurman revealed this while talking about all things Apple on the MacRumors Show podcast.

Gurman also mentioned that Apple could charge an additional fee from developers who make their apps available on third-party app stores. This fee would be for verification from the Cupertino-based tech giant. Apple could downplay this feature by not announcing it at the WWDC 2023, where iOS 17 is expected to be revealed.

If this feature becomes a reality, it would be a significant strategy shift from Apple, but it would only benefit iPhone users in Europe. Users from other parts of the world might have to wait for a while before they can enjoy this feature.

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Reasons behind Apple’s Potential Move

The steep prices and Apple’s strong control over the app marketplace are believed to be the reasons behind the company potentially agreeing to this move. If app developers could make their apps available to iPhone users without being in the App Store, they could save the 15% to 30% fee that the company charges. This could result in more competition, leading to better app quality and reduced prices for users.

Other Changes in iOS 17

Apart from sideloading apps, Gurman has also mentioned that the iOS 17 update could bring some improvements to Apple’s core system apps. There will be more focus on Find-My and location-related features, as well as bringing improvements to the Apple Wallet app.

Gurman previously stated that the iOS 17 update could bring some ‘nice to have’ features, and Apple originally intended it to be a ‘tuneup release.’ However, the company has now changed its strategy regarding the iOS 17 update, codenamed Dawn, and it will now arrive with several new features.

It should be noted that this leak has not come from any official sources, so take the information with a healthy bit of skepticism. However, if sideloading of apps on iPhones becomes a reality with the iOS 17 update, it could change the game for iPhone users,

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Nigel Jr.
As a tech enthusiast and expert, Nigel Jr. is dedicated to providing in-depth and insightful content on all things technology. With a background in online journalism, product reviewing, and tech creation, Nigel has become a trusted source for all things tech.

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