While the rest of the world has happily sideloaded apps for years (hello, Android!), the walled garden of iOS may finally crack open a smidge in Europe, thanks to the Digital Markets Act (DMA). But hold your horses, iPhone folks, because Apple reportedly has a “special” sideloading plan for you guys. The company is gearing up to adapt to the DMA in March, which mandates Apple to allow iPhone app sideloading to curb its perceived monopolistic grip on iOS software.
However, word on the grapevine, courtesy of the Wall Street Journal (via Android Authority), is that Apple intends to charge iPhone developers for sideloaded apps as well as review sideloaded apps, potentially mirroring their current in-app purchase commission model. So, you’ll not only pay for the app itself, but also cough up a cut to the Cupertino overlord for the privilege of installing it from outside their golden gates. That’s probably one of the most ludicrous thing you’ll read on Android Kenya for the longest time. But there’s more!
First of all, this “review process” for non-App Store apps raises eyebrows. Imagine Apple, the company notorious for rejecting apps for the silliest reasons, getting to vet your sideloaded goodies. It’s like inviting the school principal to your rave behind the dormitory – the party will get shut down real quick. While technically Apple can do whatever they please in their walled garden, the question is whether this sideloading charade will appease European regulators. The DMA is pretty clear about breaking down monopolies, and charging tolls for sideloading apps smells suspiciously anti-competitive.
So, while iPhone users in Europe might finally get a taste of sideloading freedom, it will likely come at a price and a side of Apple-flavored scrutiny. Meanwhile, the rest of us Android folk will be chilling with our free, open app ecosystem, wondering why anyone would willingly pay to play in the walled garden. But who knows, maybe someday, even Apple users will get to experience the joy of truly open software, without having to pay through the nose for it.
Apple is expected to introduce provisions for sideloading in Europe with the update to iOS 17.4. However, with the reported fees and reviews, it appears Apple might be taking a route that contrasts with the open and free nature of sideloading apps as we’ve known it on Android for ages.
