Apple considers sideloading compliance with EU for iOS 17

Amid claims of anti-competitive practices, Apple has faced scrutiny from governments, particularly the European Union, regarding the App Store and the inability to install apps on iOS from sources other than the App Store.

Although there have been rumors that Apple will include a sideloading feature in iOS 17, the recently released beta version does not have the feature.

Apple remained silent on the matter, until an episode of "The Talk Show" with John Gruber, when Craig Federighi, Apple's vice president of software engineering, stated that Apple wants to ensure any decision aligns with customer interests and mentioned ongoing discussions with the EU about compliance.

While Federighi has not confirmed the availability of sideloading in iOS 17, his comments clearly hint that Apple intends to offer the feature in response to EU requirements. Given Apple's experience, it wouldn't be surprising if the company kept the feature a secret until iOS 17's public release later this year.

Apple, however, wants to minimize the impact of sideloading if it is implemented. The company's resistance to sideloading comes from the fact that the App Store generates significant revenue, as developers pay commissions of up to 30% on each sale. If side-loading is allowed, it will likely be limited to countries where Apple is required by law to allow it.

Developers can now get access to the first beta version of iOS 17. The public beta will be released in the summer, and the official launch is expected in the fall. More information about installing the beta update is available on Apple's developer site.