If you are an iPhone or iPad user, you are likely familiar with the “walled garden” of iOS. Apple restricts users from installing apps outside the official App Store—unless you jailbreak your device or use a workaround. Enter AltStore .
AltStore is an alternative app store for non-jailbroken iOS devices. It allows you to sideload IPA files (iOS application packages) onto your iPhone or iPad using a technique called "sideloading." This guide will walk you through every step, from downloading AltStore to successfully installing any compatible IPA file on your device. Before diving into the installation process, it's crucial to understand what AltStore is and its limitations. how to install ipa file using altstore
AltStore leverages a developer feature called "Free Developer Provisioning." Normally, Apple allows users with a free Apple ID to sideload up to 3 apps at a time, but these apps expire after 7 days. AltStore automates this process. It uses a companion app on your computer (Windows or Mac) called , which signs the IPA files with your Apple ID credentials. If you are an iPhone or iPad user,
| Feature | AltStore | SideStore | Sideloadly | Scarlet | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Yes (for initial & refresh) | No (uses WireGuard VPN) | Yes (every 7 days) | No (but requires DNS) | | Wireless Refreshing | Yes (same Wi-Fi) | Yes (Anywhere) | No | Yes | | 3 App Limit | Yes | Yes | Yes | No (uses enterprise certs) | | Ease of Use | Very Easy | Moderate | Easy | Easy (but risky) | AltStore is an alternative app store for non-jailbroken
Stick with AltStore for stability and privacy. If you cannot access a computer every 7 days, consider SideStore (a fork of AltStore) that refreshes using a VPN. Is Sideloading IPA Files Legal and Safe? Legality: Sideloading your own apps or open-source apps is perfectly legal. Downloading and installing pirated/cracked IPAs (paid apps shared for free) is illegal and violates Apple’s terms of service.