Alternative Ways to Install Apps on iPhone
If you use an iPhone, you are probably used to the App Store. You open it, find an app, tap “Download,” and that’s it. Everything is simple, safe, and official. But sometimes people ask: “Are there other ways to install apps on an iPhone?”
The short answer is yes. For instance, popular betting platforms like 20Bet often aren’t fully available directly in the App Store in certain countries due to local gambling regulations, pushing users to look for workarounds such as web apps, direct downloads from the official site, or other sideloading methods.
The longer answer is: it’s not that simple.
Why do people look for alternatives to the App Store
People have different reasons. Some apps are not available in the App Store. Some users want to try modified versions of games or apps without ads. Others are just curious and want to understand how closed the iPhone system really is.
This is where third-party installers come into the picture.
Why is iPhone a “closed” system
iOS was designed as a closed system from the start. This means:
- Apps can normally be installed only from the App Store.
- Every app is checked before it is published.
- The system limits what apps can access.
This approach is good for security. There are fewer viruses and fewer chances to damage the system. But it also means less freedom. You cannot just install any app file like you can on a computer.
What third-party installers are
Third-party installers are apps or services that let you install apps outside the App Store. They usually use tools meant for developers, not regular users.
In simple terms, it works like this:
- An app is signed with a special certificate.
- The iPhone sees it as trusted.
- The user can install it directly.
It sounds easy, but there are many limitations.
How installers like Scarlet work
These installers usually offer their own app catalogs. You can find games, tools, emulators, and experimental apps. You open the installer, choose an app, and install it with a few taps.
The key part here is certificates. Apple allows developers to install test apps on devices. Third-party installers use developer or enterprise certificates to distribute apps to many users.
The problem is that Apple can cancel these certificates at any time.
What you can do with third-party installers
In general, they allow you to:
- Install apps not available in the App Store.
- Use modified versions of apps (for example, without ads).
- Run emulators and experimental software.
- Try beta or older versions of apps.
For curious users, this can be very interesting.
The limitations and risks
This is the most important part. Third-party installers have serious downsides.
- Apps can stop working
An app may work today and stop opening tomorrow if the certificate is revoked. - You may need to reinstall often
Some apps need to be reinstalled every few days or weeks. - Security is not guaranteed
You don’t always know what is inside the app. These apps are not reviewed the same way as App Store apps. - iOS limits still apply
Even with a third-party installer, apps still follow iOS rules. They do not get full access to the system.
How is it different from jailbreak?
It’s important not to confuse third-party installers with jailbreak. Jailbreaking is a system hack that removes many iOS restrictions. Most third-party installers do not require a jailbreak and work within Apple’s developer rules.
This makes them safer, but also much more limited.
Is it worth using them?
For most users, probably not. If you only need popular apps and games, the App Store is easier and more reliable.
But if you:
- like to experiment;
- understand the risks;
- don’t mind apps breaking sometimes,
then third-party installers can be an interesting option.
Final thoughts
Alternative ways to install apps on iPhone do exist, but they are not as simple or stable as on other platforms. Apple keeps iOS tightly controlled, and without hacking the system, there are clear limits.
Third-party installers are a compromise. You get a bit more freedom, but also more problems and uncertainty. For some users, that’s a downside. For others, it’s part of the fun.
