Could Apple Open Sideloading Doors With iOS 17? Top Analyst Thinks So

Apple Inc. AAPL is not expected to introduce many new features in iOS 17 but may incorporate elements that will enable the sideloading of apps. 

What Happened: As we approach Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference or WWDC in June, all eyes are on the upcoming updates to the company’s principal operating systems, with iOS 17, in particular, garnering significant attention. 

However, reports suggest that this year’s changes to iOS may prioritize regulatory compliance over flashy new features, reported AppleInsider. 

See Also: Apple Releases iOS 16.4 Version: What You Need To Know Before Updating

In his latest “Power On” newsletter, Bloomberg columnist Mark Gurman said that the Cupertino, California-based tech giant would introduce iOS 17, iPadOS 17, macOS 14 and a major watchOS 10 update. 

He said iOS and iPadOS updates “aren’t likely to offer major new features” but could “satisfy a checklist of user requests with more minor improvements.”

Gurman said Apple would make “more noise beyond WWDC itself” by overhauling iOS to enable sideloading.

For the unversed, Sideloading refers to installing apps onto a device without using the App Store, typically by transferring them from a connected computer, downloading them from the Internet and installing separately, or obtaining them from a third-party app store, the report noted. 

Why It’s Important: In December 2022, it was reported that Apple was bracing itself for upcoming changes to EU laws, including the Digital Markets Act, which will require the company to permit third-party app stores on its iPhone and iPad devices.

 According to recent reports, Apple is taking steps to ensure it’s ready to comply with these new regulations, which are set to take effect in 2024. 

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