"Apple's iOS 17.2 Update Brings Sideloading and App Store Changes"

iPhone users in the EU will be able to sideload apps from sources outside of Apple's App Store in the first half of 2024, allowing them to bypass Apple's fees. This change is in response to European regulations requiring "gatekeeper" companies to open up their platforms. Apple will introduce a controlled system for sideloading, likely through a localized iOS 17 update, and may make changes to Messages and payment apps. Apple has previously argued that sideloading could compromise user privacy and security.