AltStore

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AltStore app allows you to install unsigned IPA files from the internet onto your iPhone.

altstore

AltStore app is completely free and no jailbreak is needed, so here’s everything you need to know:

How to Download AltStore:

Download AltStore

AltStore isn’t the same as the other app stores because you can only install it on your device using your computer. It requires a companion app called AltServer to be installed on your computer and your iPhone or iPad connected to your computer by cable. If you use the Windows operating system, you must ensure that your version of iTunes comes from Apple and not the Microsoft app store. You can use the links below to get the right one:

Now you can go ahead and install AltStore on your iPhone or iPad:

  1. Connect your device to your computer using the official cable
  2. Open the official AltStore website and install the AltServer companion app
  3. Windows Users – open your icon tray and click AltStore. Hover your mouse over Install AltStore > your device name
  4. Mac Users – click AltStore on your toolbar. Click on Install AltStore > your device name
  5. Wait – when the installation has been successful, you will see the AltStore icon on your device home screen and you can use it to install your unsigned IPA files.

To use AltStore on your device you must ensure that AltServer is open on your computer and your device is connected – you can do this by cable or with iTunes Wi-Fi Sync, ensuring your device and computer are connected on the same network.

How to Use AltStore App:

  1. Open AltStore on your iPhone or iPad
  2. If an Untrusted Developer error appears, open Settings > General > Profiles and trust the profile
  3. On the AltStore home page, tap Settings > Account
  4. Use your Apple ID to sign in ( or app-specific password if applicable )
  5. Tap the browser and search for the app you want to install
  6. Tap on FREE beside the app and it will be installed

Installing IPA Files using Altstore:

You can use AltStore to install unsigned IPA files, so long as they come from safe and trusted websites:

  1. Download your IPA file
  2. Find it on your device and tap the AltStore icon
  3. AltStore opens and the file will be signed and then installed
  4. Alternatively, you can open the store and tap on the + icon
  5. Find your downloaded file, tap it and wait for it to be installed
  6. The app icon will load on your home screen

Pros and Cons of AltStore:

AltStore has its fair share of pros and cons:

Pros

  • You don’t need a jailbreak
  • Because you self-sign the apps, Apple cannot revoke the certificates
  • Download preloaded apps or install external IPA files

Cons

  • Only three apps can be active on your device at any time and one of those is AltStore
  • AltServer companion app is needed on your computer and your computer and device must be linked via cable or Wi-Fi Sync
  • You must refresh the app once a week to prevent it from crashing.

Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ ):

These are the commonly asked questions that we get about AltStore:

  • What is AltStore?

AltStore is an unofficial app installer that offers pre-installed third-party apps and the option of installing third-party IPA files using developer certificates you create.

  • Is AltStore app a Jailbreak?

No, and there is no need to use one either. AltStore is nothing more than an unofficial app installed offering a great way of getting unofficial content onto your device.

  • How Does AltStore Work?

AltStore was developed by Riley Testut and includes a neat feature Apple provides developers with so they can test their apps before submitting them to the official store. This is how you self-sign the certificates and install the apps and is also why your Apple ID is required. It also explains why you are restricted to three active apps at any one time, one of which is AltStore.

  • What Apps Can I Download using AltStore?

AltStore includes a few apps and more are set to be added but you can sideload external IPA files too. These are the most popular downloads:

  1. GBA4iOS
  2. HappyChick Emulator
  3. Provenance
  4. iNDS
  5. Chimera Jailbreak
  • How Should AltStore be Used?

The best way is to follow the developer’s official recommendations:

  1. Ensure you set AltStore to automatically open when you log on to your computer
  2. Leave your computer in sleep mode when not using it and ensure your device is connected overnight. iOS will wake and refresh your apps
  3. Launch AltStore at least once every 7 days to ensure iOS prioritizes it and refreshes the apps

AltStore is something different from other app installers but offers an excellent way of getting what apps you want on your device, all for free.

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