Since the iPhone was introduced, Apple has opposed sideloading apps, but that may soon change. Mark Gurman, a renowned Apple analyst, predicts iOS 17 will enable just that.
As of right now, this hasn’t been confirmed. The upcoming iOS 17 might just lay the groundwork for sideloading. However, the EU’s new Digital Market Act will require companies to allow users to install apps from alternate sources by 2024, so it’s likely iOS 17 will bring this change.
Apple would have to allow its users to install apps from app stores other than its official App Store if it wants to comply.
As a result of privacy and security concerns, Apple has declined to enable sideloading. The company is expected to unveil massive changes to watchOS during its WWDC conference next week.
