Reports Indicate that Apple Might Charge Devs for Sideloaded Apps
Apple has been in an interesting position lately – the Cupertino-based tech giant is usually accustomed to doing things its own way, although recent times have proven that Apple isn’t immune from regulatory standards. The brand even went so far as to implement USB-C technology in its current iPhone 15 series, and more recently was involved in a patent war over wearable technology.
With that in mind, it seems that European regulators are also pushing for Apple to allow users access to app side-loading, in compliance with the Digital Markets Act which takes effect later in March. Apple has long been against the act of freely installing software from outside its official App Store, citing issues with security and stability. On the other hand, it will soon have to play by the rules – there’s just a catch.
As reported by the Wall Street Journal, it looks like Apple has plans to collect fees from developers that will offer users downloads from outside the App Store. Furthermore, there will be a required review for software that bypasses the App Store, in addition to the sideloading function being limited to users within the European Union.
At the moment however this plan has yet to be put into motion, although we imagine that this might be an unpopular move with developers, at least based on how things are looking at the moment.
Source: Engadget