Apple now lets iPhone users download apps from websites, but there's a catch

Apple is ever so closer to allowing iPhone users to download and install apps from any website, marking the end of the walled garden — at least for apps. Users can simply visit a website and download an app on their iPhone — exactly like they can on an Android phone. This facility is available as a part of the new iOS 17.5 update, the beta version of which is now rolling out. Beta testers can access the feature, but there is a catch. Also Read: Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, Series 11, Ultra 2 And 3 To Get Hypertension Alerts After FDA Nod

The Apple catch

The new app sideloading feature will be available to users in the European Union only. Apple recently announced web-based app distribution for iOS, following an order from the European Commission. Since the law mandates Apple to allow users more freedom on where they can download apps from only in the European Union, the company has limited the feature to just select European markets. Needless to say, this feature is not available in the United Kingdom. Also Read: Downloaded iOS 26? Try Out These 7 Features On Your iPhone Now

Another caveat is that Apple would charge developers a fee to distribute their apps through their websites. Per the law, Apple cannot charge developers directly, meaning there is no commission to offer apps through means other than the App Store. However, Apple will charge developers a Core Technology Fee of 0.50 euros. Developers can decide if they want to continue offering apps via the App Store, or if they want to go with the new option or both.

Other features in iOS 17.5 beta

Apart from web-based app distribution for iPhone customers in the EU, iOS 17.5 brings other notable updates, which are available to everyone. There is a new podcast widget, giving users the ability to control playback right from the Home screen or the lock screen. A new Mobile Device Management will improve and simplify the initial device setup, but it is not a consumer-facing update. Apple News+ is getting a new daily word game called Quartiles, but it will be a part of the paid subscription.

Release date

Now that iOS 17.5 beta is available for developers, the stable-channel release is not too far. Apple is likely to roll out the next iOS update sometime in early May.