Tag: App sideloading

  • Apple Confirms Sideloading Feature Restricted to iPhone, iPad Misses Out

    Apple Confirms Sideloading Feature Restricted to iPhone, iPad Misses Out

    iOS 17.4 Beta Brings Sideloading to EU iPhones, Excluding iPads

    Apple has rolled out the iOS 17.4 beta, which brings a significant change in compliance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). This update introduces the option of sideloading for EU users, enabling them to download and install applications from sources other than the official App Store. However, it is important to note that this feature is currently limited to iPhones only, and iPad users are excluded from this new flexibility.

    Sideloading: Exploring the New Possibilities

    Sideloading is a process that allows users to bypass the official App Store and directly download and install applications from alternative sources. With the iOS 17.4 beta, EU iPhone users gain the ability to explore a wider range of apps and discover new possibilities outside the confines of the App Store.

    The European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA)

    The European Union’s Digital Markets Act is legislation aimed at promoting fair competition and consumer choice within the digital market. As part of its compliance with this act, Apple has introduced the option of sideloading in its latest iOS 17.4 beta release. This move is in line with the EU’s objective of fostering a more open and competitive environment for app distribution.

    iPad Users Left Out

    While EU iPhone users can now enjoy the benefits of sideloading, iPad users are currently excluded from this new feature. Apple has not provided any specific reasons for this limitation. It is unclear whether sideloading will be extended to iPads in future updates or if this exclusion will remain permanent.

    Pricing and Specifications

    The iOS 17.4 beta update is available for free to all eligible EU iPhone users. The sideloading feature, however, is exclusively accessible to iPhone users and does not extend to iPads.

    In conclusion, Apple’s iOS 17.4 beta release brings the option of sideloading to EU iPhone users, aligning with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act. While this introduces new possibilities for iPhone users, iPad users are currently not included in this feature. It remains to be seen whether sideloading will be extended to iPads in future updates.

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  • Google’s CEO Sundar Pichai Advises Android Users Against Sideloaded Apps

    Google’s CEO Sundar Pichai Advises Android Users Against Sideloaded Apps

    Google CEO Sundar Pichai Warns Android Users Not to Sideload Apps

    App sideloading, a practice that affects both Apple and Google, has gained popularity in recent years. While Android has always allowed third-party programs and app shops, Apple is now being pressured to make a shift. Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, testified about the company’s alleged practice of suppressing competition by charging app developers a premium in the legal dispute with Epic Games.

    Pichai later clarified that Google prohibits sideloading programs on Android phones to protect consumers from viruses and potential security risks. He also emphasized how Google’s principles promote choice and creativity, pointing to Android’s larger and foldable phone designs.

    Google’s Approach to Sideloading

    It is interesting to hear Pichai discuss sideloading, considering that Android has always embraced it as an open-source platform. However, his mention of viruses when installing programs from other app shops seems to be an attempt to incite fear in the public. In reality, Google has recently started using the Play Protect function to examine sideloaded Android apps for any potential threats.

    Control and Security Concerns

    Many have noted that Google will have greater control over the apps users can download if sideloading is restricted. While the company claims that apps from the Play Store provide the highest level of protection for customers, a recent security study by Kaspersky revealed that there were 600 million recorded malicious app downloads from Google’s app store in 2023 alone.

    Apple has long opposed sideloading, as it would mean losing control over how and from where apps are loaded on the iPhone. Pichai’s focus on safety aligns with Apple’s concerns.

    The Financial Aspect

    Pichai’s recent statements also suggest that both Google and Apple are aware of the 30% fee they receive from developers who host their programs on their respective app stores. This may explain why companies like Epic Games have chosen to host their software on their websites instead of distributing it through app stores.

    In conclusion, Google’s CEO Sundar Pichai is warning Android users against sideloading apps, citing security concerns. While the company aims to protect consumers, critics argue that this move gives Google more control over app downloads. Additionally, the financial implications for developers are also a factor to consider. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how both Apple and Google will navigate the future of app distribution.

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