Apple to allow sideloading apps shows iOS 17.2. Here’s why they are forced to comply with this dangerous step

Apple’s latest iOS 17.2 beta’s source code has shown that it will allow sideloading apps on iPhones, allowing users to download apps from third-party app stores. The discovery was made by the team at 9to5 Mac, who identified a new public framework called “Managed App Distribution” within the beta code. How Apple will allow sideloading Initially thought to be related to modernizing Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions for enterprise app installations, the theory faced challenges as iPhones already possess this capability. The presence of a region lock reference further fueled speculation that this API may facilitate sideloading apps, aligning with local regulations in specific countries. Upon closer examination, it was discovered that the API includes basic controls for downloading, installing, and updating apps from external sources, along with an extension endpoint for other apps to create similar extensions. Additionally, a currently unused entitlement was identified, potentially granting third-party apps the necessary permissions to install other apps on iPhones, effectively allowing developers to establish their own app stores. This development follows a report from April outlining Apple’s intentions to lay the groundwork for sideloading apps with iOS 17. If implemented, this change would mark a departure from Apple’s traditional closed ecosystem, where users are restricted to downloading apps exclusively from the official App Store. Why sideloading is dangerous Unlike reputable app stores that implement stringent security measures, sideloading exposes users to an elevated risk of downloading malicious software. Apps obtained from unofficial sources may harbour malware, viruses, or other harmful elements that can compromise the integrity of a device and compromise sensitive user data. Moreover, sideloading circumvents the regulatory frameworks imposed by official app stores. These regulations serve to ensure that apps meet certain standards, such as privacy protection and adherence to ethical coding practices. Sideloading allows the installation of apps that haven’t undergone such scrutiny, increasing the likelihood of encountering software with compatibility issues, privacy violations, or other undesirable features. Additionally, sideloading raises concerns about intellectual property and piracy. Users may unwittingly download pirated or unauthorized versions of apps, infringing on developers’ rights and exposing themselves to potential security risks. The lack of automatic updates and limited support for sideloaded apps further exacerbates these dangers, as users may miss critical security patches and updates. In summary, while sideloading offers flexibility, its associated risks make it a potentially hazardous practice, particularly for users seeking a secure and reliable digital experience. How Apple was forced into making this decision Despite its drawbacks, sideloading would empower iPhone users to download apps from external sources and provide iOS developers with an alternative to Apple’s standard 15-30 per cent cut from App Store purchases. The shift towards sideloading is seen as a response to new European Union regulations, particularly the Digital Markets Act set to take effect in 2024. These regulations compel major tech companies, including Apple, to open up their services and platforms to other developers, offering users the option to download apps from diverse sources. The move towards sideloading represents a noteworthy adjustment for Apple, driven by evolving regulatory landscapes and the demand for greater flexibility within its iOS ecosystem. The European Commission has officially designated iOS and the App Store as “gatekeepers,” prompting the implementation of significant changes outlined in the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The European Commission had identified Apple’s iOS, the Safari browser, and the App Store as gatekeepers, necessitating adjustments within six months in accordance with DMA regulations. As a result, Apple is now obligated to permit users to directly install applications on their iPhones, with sideloading being one of the notable outcomes. The DMA introduces broad transformations, allowing users to potentially replace Siri with competing alternatives, while services like iMessage may undergo modifications in the future. Although Apple hasn’t made an official announcement regarding the imminent availability of this feature for iPhones and iPads in the region, the new discovery all but confirms this. Failure to comply with these regulations could expose Apple to fines, starting at 10 per cent of its annual turnover, with the potential to increase to 20 per cent for repeated violations. Further consequences may include the EU compelling Apple to divest parts of its business or prohibiting acquisitions.