Evidence in the iOS 17.2 beta code suggests that Apple is moving towards enabling sideloading on iOS devices.
Sideloading involves installing apps from third-party sources rather than the official App Store, which Apple has never allowed on iOS.
The Digital Markets Act, passed by the EU, requires that users can install apps from third-party sources, leading Apple to work on enabling sideloading.
iOS 17.2 introduces a new public framework called "Managed App Distribution," suggesting a significant change related to sideloading.
The API within this framework allows third-party apps to install other apps, potentially enabling developers to create their own app stores.
The API has controls for downloading, installing, and updating apps from external sources, along with references to a region lock, indicating possible restrictions to specific countries.
Apple is expected to comply with the Digital Markets Act by March 2024, making changes that may impact the App Store's business model.
The company may appeal to the EU to exclude the App Store from the Digital Markets Act, but iOS 17 is anticipated to be ready for sideloading.