AltStore is another alternative for iOS users to install unofficial content on their devices. While it offers plenty of modified and tweaked apps and games though, it is a little different from other similar app stores. Read on to find out how.
How to Download and Install AltStore?
AltStore cannot be installed directly on your device. You will need your Mac or Windows computer, and you need to install a companion app called AltServer. If you are using the Windows operating system, you need to install iTunes from Apple, not from the Microsoft app store. If you need to change your version, delete the old one and use the links below:
● iTunes for Windows (64-bit) and (32-bit)
Now you are ready to install AltStore
1. Connect your iOS device to your computer and launch your browser
2. Download AltServer onto your computer from the Altstore website
3. Windows – go to your icon tray and click AltServer. Hover the mouse icon over Install AltStore and choose your device
4. Mac – in your toolbar, click AltStore >Install AltStore and choose your device
5. Wait for AltStore to install on your device – the icon will appear when it’s done.
There are some things to be aware of:
● It would help if you left your computer on with your device connected when you are not using it – this helps refresh the apps
● When you update the app or download apps or games, your device and computer must be connected using the cable or iTunes Wi-Fi Sync
● Your device and computer must be on the same Wi-Fi network
How to Use AltStore
1. Open the store from your home screen
2. If an untrusted developer error appears, remember the developer name and go to your iOS settings
3. Tap General > Profiles and tap the developer name
4. Tap Trust and close Settings
5. Open AltStore again and tap Settings > Account > Sign In
6. Use your Apple ID and password
7. Use the browser to find an app or game and tap it
8. Tap FREE and wait for it to be installed
Installing External IPA Files
You can also download and install external files:
1. Download the IPA files onto your device from safe sources – use Safari browser for this
2. Find the file and tap the AltStore icon
3. The store opens, and the app is signed and installed
4. Alternatively, open AltStore and tap the Plus (+) icon
5. Please find the file, tap it and wait for it to be installed
Any apps you install will go to your home screen and to the My Apps section in AltStore.
Pros and Cons:
All apps have pros and cons, and AltStore is no different:
Pros:
● No jailbreak is required
● Because you self-sign the apps, the certificates cannot be revoked
● It is completely free
● Download external files or install built-in apps
Cons:
● Only three active apps are allowed on your device at a time – AltStore is one
● The AltServer companion app must be used to install the app and update it. Your computer is required, and your device must be connected using iTunes Wi-Fi Sync or the cable
● The apps need refreshing every seven days for free Apple IDs and 12 months for paid IDs.
Frequently Asked Questions:
These tell you all you need to know about AltStore
What is AltStore?
It is a third-party app store that allows unsigned IPA files to be installed easily on your device. The app lets you create developer certificates to do this.
Is AltStore a Jailbreak?
No, it is nothing more than an app store and tool to install files. You also don’t need to jailbreak to use it.
How Does it Work?
Developed by Riley Testut, the store uses a developer feature provided by Apple. This feature allows apps to be tested before the developers request they go to the store. The apps are self-signed using developer certificates, which removes the need for enterprise certificates. This is why your Apple ID is needed and why you can only have three apps at a time.
What Apps Can be Downloaded?
Right now, the store doesn’t have many apps, but more will be added soon. In the meantime, these are the popular downloads:
● GBA4iOS
● Happy Chick Emulator
● Provenance
● iNDS
● Chimera Jailbreak
And don’t forget you can download external IPA files and sideload them onto your device too.
What’s the Best Way to Use AltStore?
By following the guidelines issued by the developer:
● Set AltStore, so it opens automatically when your computer is switched on
● Leave your computer in sleep mode when you are not using it and leave AltServer running. Connect your device so the apps can be refreshed
● AltStore must be used at least once every seven days to ensure it is prioritized by iOS and the apps are restored.
AltStore is one of the latest ways of installing unofficial content on your iPhone or iPad. Try it today – there’s no need to jailbreak, and it's completely free.
COMMENTS