Apple may soon allow third-party iPhone app stores

Ever since 2008, Apple has only allowed its own App Store on the iPhone. In the past, if you wanted alternative digital storefronts, you’d have to jailbreak your device. But in response to impending regulations from the European Union, Apple may be allowing alternative app stores on the iPhone and iPad in the near future — potentially as soon as iOS 17 in 2023.

According to a report from Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman, this will be the very first time that Apple will allow third-party app stores on the iPhone. It seems that Apple is already dedicating a “significant amount of resources to the companywide endeavor.”

App Store displayed on an iPhone 14 Pro against a pink backgroundChristine Romero-Chan / Digital Trends

Sources who have spoken to Bloomberg about this new project have said that this is a “major push to open up key elements of Apple’s platforms.” From the report, “as part of the changes, customers could ultimately download third-party software to their iPhones and iPads without using the company’s App Store.”

New story: Apple is preparing to allow alternative app stores and side-loading on iOS — along with a slew of other changes to make the iPhone more open — in response to new European Union requirements arriving in 2024. https://t.co/hZpXrKdHGj — Mark Gurman (@markgurman) December 13, 2022

As great as this could be for the consumer, not all Apple engineers are on board with this project.

Some see it as a “distraction from typical day-to-day development of future features.” The report reads:

Apple is applying a significant amount of resources to the companywide endeavor. It hasn’t been a popular initiative within Apple, considering that the company has spent years decrying the need for “sideloading” — the process of installing software without using the official App Store.

In lobbying against the new European laws, Apple has argued that sideloading could put unsafe apps on consumers’ devices and undermine privacy.

Some engineers working on the plan also see it as distraction from typical day-to-day development of future features, according to the people. The company is aiming for the changes to be ready as part of an update to next year’s iOS 17, which would be in line with requirements.

This initiative is being led by Andreas Wendker, who is Apple’s Software Engineering Vice President and reports directly to Craig Federighi. But this is taking more than just Apple’s engineering team, as the services team will also be involved with this project.

The top engineering manager for services, Jeff Robbin, leads the effort for the services side, and Robbin reports to Eddy Cue. However, despite possibly allowing third-party digital storefronts on the iPhone and iPad, it won’t be the wild west of app stores. The idea of Apple mandating certain security requirements, even if the app is distributed outside of the App Store, is a possibility.

For example, Apple could require verification, which may need a fee from the developers of said app. However, it remains unclear whether or not Apple would move forward with that.

Changes would also come to NFC chip and camera access, Find My network for rivals to the AirTag, web browsing engines and other areas of Apple’s software. The company still plans to charge developers for access to iOS even with side loading.

— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) December 13, 2022

While these changes are expected to apply only to Europe, it’s not hard to imagine a future where similar legislation from other countries eventually brings third-party app stores to iPhones worldwide. Similarly, Gurman claims that it’s not just third-party app stores Apple will open up. He also says this would open up the camera, NFC, Find My, web browsers, and more.

In other words, we could get a Tile tracker that works with Find My, or Google Pay support on an iPhone.

Apple has always been strict with what users can or can’t download on their devices through the App Store, so this is going to be a huge change.

Some may welcome the idea of third-party app stores on the iPhone, while others may not be too thrilled.

Editors’ Recommendations

Tags:

hive listed on couponmatrix.uklightscouk listed on couponmatrix.ukmotoin listed on couponmatrix.uksea-life-centres-and-sanctuaries listed on couponmatrix.uksizzling-pub-company listed on couponmatrix.ukzee-and-co listed on couponmatrix.uk
hive listed on couponmatrix.ukHive is music and books retailing with a difference - every sale is made in support of your local high street bookshop and you’re given the option of choosing which shop you’d like Hive to support with your purchase! With a Hive discount code you can cut price your next order from Hive to unbelievable levels so whether you’re buying for someone else or stocking your own shelves, you don’t need to compromise those savings.
lightscouk listed on couponmatrix.ukAnd the lord said, let there be Lights.co.uk! When you’re looking for quality lighting products that won’t break the bank, this is the place to be, so grab a lights co uk discount code and illuminate your home for less! With an amazing range of products on offer, all excellent goods at prices you’re sure to love, this is a retailer that doesn’t sacrifice quality for value.
motoin listed on couponmatrix.ukMotoin vouchers lead to savings on a full range of moto-related products. Motoin has been the go-to website for motorcyclists for over a decade now, and their stock of parts, accessories and clothing is made up of over 100,000 items. Available to view in various languages and currencies, and with worldwide shipping, the website is truly an international interest with customers surfing the virtual showroom from all over the globe. Use our special motoin voucher codes to help keep your wallet feeling just as heavy as your shopping cart. Founded in 2007 by two passionate riders with strong backgrounds in e-commerce and motorcycle accessories, motoin is a real labour of love for the pairing. Calling on their former experience and knowledge, the partners strive to provide their customers with brilliant service and top-quality, reliable products. Boasting a physical showroom as well as an easy-to-navigate website, motoin caters to both road and off-road riders. Throttle jockeys can find everything from protective riding gear and helmets to sports apparel and bike parts, with featured brands including Alpinestars, Dainese, Scott, Arai and Thor. The vast range is backed up by great price offers, a simple ordering and delivery process, several payment options and easy returns. Purchases can be made all the sweeter by reducing your total spend with motoin discount codes from Groupon. Make your next trip down the road or to the track or trail an exciting one with some new gear for yourself or some trick parts for your bike. Pick the voucher that best suits your needs and head over to motoin to make it happen. But remember… keep it rubber side down.
sea-life-centres-and-sanctuaries listed on couponmatrix.ukDive into a world of watery adventures with Sea Life. With amazing aquarium attractions all over the country, you’re sure to have a day packed full of family fun! With our Sea Life Centre vouchers you can save big on your booking. As well as providing a fun-filled attraction, Sea Life Centres are committed to conservation and protection of marine life. Explore the amazing wildlife of our oceans while helping to protect and preserve - it’s a win-win!
sizzling-pub-company listed on couponmatrix.ukWhether you’re celebrating a special occasion, watching the footy with your mates or bonding over a family lunch, you can expect the warmest of welcomes, tasty grub and red-hot offers from Sizzling Pubs. Explore our Sizzling Pubs vouchers to knock money off already affordable prices - with plenty to offer all the family, you could treat the whole gang for less. With friendly service and a home-away-from-home atmosphere, Sizzling Pubs will make your good times go further.
zee-and-co listed on couponmatrix.ukFinding the right outfit can be hard work, but with a store like Zee & Co, it doesn't have to be. They've invested huge amounts of time in compiling the finest selections of new and classic designers. Shop here and you know your latest outfit will be streaks ahead of the rest. Add a Zee and Co discount code from Groupon and you'll be paying less for that new look too.