How to Sideload apps on iPhone: Sideloadly and AltStore have emerged as simple and effective methods to sideload apps on your iPhone or iPad—no jailbreak required! Whether you’re looking to boost productivity or explore beta versions of apps, these tools make sideloading accessible and hassle-free. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of sideloading apps on your iOS device.
There are several reasons why someone might want to sideload apps on an iPhone. For example, if you’re a developer testing new features or apps before public release, the official process can be time-consuming due to Apple’s approval requirements. Sideloading allows you to bypass these delays and test your app immediately.
Another common scenario is when an app isn’t available on the App Store but is safe and reliable. By sideloading, you can install and enjoy such apps on your iPhone without limitations.
What is Sideloading?
Sideloading refers to manually installing apps on an iPhone or iPad, bypassing the official App Store. While Apple generally recommends downloading apps directly from the App Store, you can sideload apps if you have a trusted IPA file (iOS App Store Package).
Sideloading was first introduced by Apple with iOS 13 and iPadOS 13, so if your device runs on iOS 13 or a newer version, you can install apps manually. In fact, there are reports that Apple may simplify the sideloading process even further with the release of iOS 17, with the feature potentially rolling out to EU iPhone users in early 2024.
Now that you understand what sideloading is, let’s dive into how you can manually install apps on your iPhone or iPad.
How to Sideload apps on iPhone or iPad
There are several ways to sideload apps, but two of the easiest methods are using Sideloadly and AltStore. These platforms allow you to sideload apps onto your Apple device by utilizing Apple’s built-in feature, which enables you to sideload up to three apps for free within a 7-day period using your Apple ID. Developers with an Apple Developer account can keep apps on their device longer.
Before proceeding, make sure you meet the following prerequisites:
Prerequisites:
- Sideloadly or AltStore
- Windows or Mac Desktop/Laptop
- iTunes and iCloud installed on your PC
- Apple ID (you can create a dummy account if needed)
- Lightning Cable for connecting your iPhone or iPad to your computer
How to Sideload Apps on iPhone Using Sideloadly
Sideloadly is a popular tool for sideloading IPAs, and it’s available for both Mac and Windows users for free. It even offers extra options during the sideloading process. You can also use Sideloadly to install apps on Apple Macs with M1, M2, and other processors.
Here’s how you can sideload apps using Sideloadly:
- Download and Install Sideloadly:
First, download and install the Sideloadly app on your Windows or Mac computer. - Launch the App:
Open the Sideloadly app on your computer. - Sign in with Apple ID:
Enter your Apple ID details and connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer using a Lightning cable. - Select Your Device:
Choose the device where you want to install the app. - Download the IPA File:
Download the IPA file you want to sideload to your device. - Drag and Drop the IPA:
Drag and drop the IPA file into the Sideloadly tool’s IPA box. - Start the Sideloading Process:
Click the “Start” button to begin the installation. - Enter Your Apple ID Password:
When prompted, enter your Apple ID password to authorize the installation. - Check Your iPhone/iPad:
The app should now appear on your device’s home screen or in the app library. - Trust the Developer:
To open the app, go to Settings > General > Device Management (or VPN & Device Management) and grant access to the new developer. - Open the App:
Once you’ve granted access, open the app, and you’re ready to go!
How to Sideload Apps on iPhone Using AltStore
AltStore is another popular and user-friendly tool that helps iPhone users install third-party IPAs. With AltStore, you can manage sideloaded apps directly on your device, while its counterpart, AltServer, enables sideloading from your PC. Let’s walk through the steps to sideload apps on your iPhone using AltStore.
Steps to Install AltStore on Your PC:
- Install AltStore:
Begin by installing AltStore on your Windows PC or Mac. - Launch AltStore:
Open the AltStore app, then log in using your Apple ID credentials. - Connect Your iPhone:
Use a Lightning cable to connect your iPhone to your PC. - Trust Your PC:
If this is the first time you’re connecting your iPhone, tap Trust on your iPhone’s screen to grant access. - Sync with iTunes/Finder:
Open iTunes on your PC (or Finder on a Mac) and select your device. In the Options section, enable Sync with this phone over Wi-Fi and click Apply. - Install AltStore on Your iPhone:
Open AltServer from your PC’s taskbar and select the Install AltStore option to install AltStore on your iPhone.
Steps to Sideload Apps on iPhone or iPad:
Before you start, ensure you grant access to third-party developers. Navigate to Settings > General > Device Management (or VPN & Device Management) and grant access to the new developer.
- Open AltStore:
Launch the AltStore app on your iPhone or iPad. - Access the My Apps Tab:
Tap the My Apps tab from the bottom navigation bar. - Select the IPA:
Tap the + icon at the top left corner to open the Files app. From here, choose the IPA file you want to sideload. - Start the Installation:
Once you’ve selected the IPA file, return to the AltStore app to monitor the installation progress. - Complete the Installation:
Once the app is installed, you can use it for seven days before needing to reinstall.
Is It Safe to Manually Install Apps on iPhone?
Manually installing third-party apps on an iPhone can be a bit of a gamble. The safety of sideloading apps largely depends on the source of the IPA file you’re installing. If you’re installing a beta version of a popular app or a developer version that is already available as a stable release on the App Store, you generally don’t need to worry much. Apple closely monitors apps available on the App Store, so the risk is relatively low in these cases.
However, if you’re sideloading apps from unknown developers or untrusted platforms, extra caution is required. While the sideloading process itself is not harmful, installing apps that contain malware or come from dubious sources could put your personal data at risk.
Now that you understand what sideloading is, whether it’s safe, and how to sideload apps on your iPhone, feel free to leave any further questions in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sideloading, and how is it different from downloading apps from the App Store?
Sideloading refers to manually installing app files (IPA files) on an iPhone or iPad, bypassing the App Store. Unlike downloading apps directly from the App Store, sideloading allows users to install apps that may not be officially available or approved by Apple.
Do I need to jailbreak my iPhone to sideload apps?
No, you do not need to jailbreak your iPhone to sideload apps. Tools like Sideloadly and AltStore allow you to install third-party apps without altering the system, keeping your iPhone secure and warranty intact.
Are there any risks involved in sideloading apps?
Sideloading itself is safe, but the risk depends on the source of the IPA file. Apps from unknown or untrusted developers could contain malware or compromise your data. Always download IPAs from reliable sources to ensure safety.
Can I sideload apps for free, or do I need a developer account?
You can sideload up to three apps for free using your regular Apple ID, but these apps will need to be reinstalled every seven days. A paid Apple Developer account removes this limitation and allows the apps to stay installed for a longer period.
What tools are available for sideloading apps on iPhone and iPad?
Popular tools for sideloading apps include Sideloadly and AltStore. Both tools are user-friendly and work on Windows and Mac, enabling you to install apps easily by following a few simple steps.
conclusion
Sideloading apps on your iPhone or iPad provides a convenient way to install third-party apps that aren’t available on the App Store, whether you’re testing beta versions or using apps from trusted sources. Tools like Sideloadly and AltStore make the process easy, even for those without a developer account. While sideloading is generally safe when done correctly, always ensure that the apps you install come from reputable sources to protect your device and personal information. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy more flexibility with your iOS apps without the need for jailbreaking or compromising your device’s security.
