Apple will open the sideloading function in iOS 17 to meet the requirements of EU regulations
Renowned Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, who closely follows Apple, recently suggested that the forthcoming WWDC 2023 may generate some “buzz” beyond the event itself with the introduction of iOS 17.
Gurman claims that, due to European Union regulations, Apple will ultimately allow sideloading on iPhones. This means that users and developers will not be obliged to use Apple’s official app store; they could also install third-party stores and distribute apps through them if they wish.
Reports indicate that Apple will enable sideloading in iOS 17 to comply with EU regulations. Apple is highly reluctant to permit sideloading, as restricting it can indeed enhance security through a layer of oversight provided by Apple’s review process. However, the EU contends that Apple’s practice of requiring developers to pay up to a 30% commission constitutes anti-competitive behavior.
The EU’s new legislation, known as the Digital Markets Act (DMA), will take effect in the coming months. The DMA aims to prevent large companies from abusing their market power, facilitate the entry of new players, and ensure greater competition in Europe’s digital markets. The act establishes a list of obligations for designated gatekeepers, with non-compliance subject to enforcement sanctions, including fines of up to 10% of global revenue.
With little hope of avoiding compliance – akin to the transition to USB-C – Apple is expected to support iPhone sideloading, with relevant changes likely to appear in iOS 17 since the DMA will be enforced by 2024.
Developers will then have the option to choose alternative stores to reduce commissions, which should, in theory, help lower consumer costs. However, it remains uncertain whether major developers would be willing to pass on those savings.
Regarding security, many non-compliant apps are currently distributed through TestFlight or enterprise signing. The availability of alternative stores may lead to some having lax review processes or accepting payment for expedited service, which could inevitably impact the iPhone’s security.
