Apple reportedly plans to roll out sideloading for iOS users in the EU in the coming weeks

Apple is gearing up to introduce an update that will enable sideloading for iPhone and iPad users across Europe, as reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman’s latest edition of “Power On” newsletter. 

The anticipated move comes in response to the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which mandates Apple to permit developers to distribute their iOS apps outside the App Store. The DMA also dictates that third-party apps should have the freedom to utilize alternative payment platforms for in-app purchases. As per the report, Apple is planning to implement changes in the coming weeks to align with new legal obligations. These adjustments are set to include the splitting off of the ‌App Store‌ in the EU from the rest of the world.

Acknowledging the need for compliance with EU legislation, Apple’s VP of Software, Craig Federighi, had confirmed last year that the company was actively working towards adapting to the DMA requirements. The looming deadline for companies to adhere to the DMA legislation is March 7, adding urgency to Apple’s implementation of the anticipated sideloading feature.

In a parallel development, Japan is reportedly gearing up to introduce its own antitrust legislation, mirroring the EU’s stance, which could potentially compel Apple to enable sideloading in iOS. Japan, too, is advocating for Apple to allow developers the flexibility to incorporate alternative payment methods within their apps.

Simultaneously, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) is indicating a readiness to push Apple towards enabling sideloading on both the iPhone and iPad. With multiple regions converging on the demand for sideloading and alternative payment methods, it appears increasingly likely that Apple may eventually extend these capabilities globally, opting for a comprehensive solution rather than navigating individual compliance efforts for each country adopting new antitrust legislation. The forthcoming weeks promise to be pivotal as Apple navigates the complex landscape of regulatory requirements and user expectations.