Apple recently made a significant announcement stating that sideloading will now be accessible for EU users with iOS 17.4. This change comes with new measures aimed at informing and safeguarding EU users, as well as outlining the limitations that come with sideloading.
Outlined in a press release provided to 9to5Mac, Apple has introduced four strategies to “protect and inform” EU users with enhanced clarity regarding the origin of apps, payment processors, and more:
Changes to “protect and inform” EU users
- App Store product page labels — these labels will now notify users when an app utilizes alternative payment processing methods.
- In-app disclosure sheets — informing users when transactions are no longer processed by Apple and are directed to alternative payment processors by developers.
- New App Review processes — to ensure developers accurately convey information about transactions using alternative payment processors.
- Expanded data portability on Apple’s Data & Privacy site — enabling EU users to access and export new data about their App Store usage to authorized third parties.
Apple App Store features not available with sideloading
Apple has specified that certain App Store features and protections will be unavailable when using third-party app stores for sideloading:
- Report a Problem
- Family Sharing
- Ask to Buy
Additionally, Apple will not facilitate refunds for app purchases made through third parties and will have limited capabilities to assist customers with issues, scams, or fraud.
For more information, visit Apple’s Developer page and refer to our comprehensive coverage.
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