In response to a new European law aimed at limiting Apple’s control over iPhone apps, Apple plans to allow sideloading with restrictions. For the first time, users will be able to download apps outside of the App Store, but Apple will review each app, collect fees from developers, and add other restrictionsThis was reported by WSJ on Wednesday. The policies will only apply in Europe and will test the implementation of the law. Spotify, Meta, Microsoft and others are eagerly developing new direct download options. Apple has defended controlling downloads through the App Store as necessary for iPhone security and quality, but critics call it anti-competitive and say Apple collects unfairly high commissions. Apple’s approach aims to maintain control despite the law, but its plans could still change.
Further reading: Changes to Apple’s App Store Rules Draw Sharp Rebuke from Critics.