iPhone to allow third-party app store on iPhones with iOS 17

Soon, iPhone users could be able to download apps from the third-party app store. Apple could bring the ability to sideload apps for the first time with its next-generation operating system iOS 17.

The move might substantiate in response to the new set of regulations from the European Union. The company is having to adopt UBC Type-C ports on iPhones in Europe already. Now, its employees are working on a new project that will allow alternative app stores for its users. The feature will be available to iPhone and iPad users when Apple rolls out iOS 17 next year.

This will be the first time, Apple will allow third-party app stores on iPhone for the first time.

It is considered a major shift in Apple’s way of work, a “major push to open up key elements of Apple’s platforms,” Bloomberg wrote. “As part of the changes, customers could ultimately download third-party software to their iPhones and iPads without using the company’s App Store,” the report explains.

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Apple is having to break away from its “closed” ecosystem

Unlike Android, iOS is a closed-source system and has remained exclusive for its users, a signature distinction for the company. But allowing third-party apps on iPhone will indicate a major shift from the way Apple devices work. And there are reports that the decision has displeased a section of Apple employees.

Apple is already liberal with its OS in certain markets such as South Korea and the Netherlands. But for it, the developers pay hefty fees to Apple for the apps.

But Apple may not give up on its closed system easily. Rather, if it does allow sideloading apps out of Apps Store, it could distract users with warnings and banners.

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Users could find more apps if they get third-party apps store on iPhone

Anyway, having an alternative could benefit iPhone users from downloading apps not available on the app store. Similarly, developers will be free from huge in-app purchase payments to Apple if their apps are available from third-party platforms.

Apple has long been debating how sideloading is not ideal for users due to security risks to users. However, a paradigm shift might be arriving due to the legislation in Europe. We might as well see iOS being more open in other markets if similar regulations are introduced.

How do you feel about having app store alternatives on iPhone? Will you be rather excited or anxious over possible security holes? Do share in the comments below.