The "feature" will become available in OS 17 will for the first time. Sideloading will allow customers to download apps without needing to enter the True and Invisible App Store, meaning developers will not have to pay a tithe of 15 to 30 per cent for Apple's blessing.

The European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA), which went into effect on November 1, 2022, requires "gatekeeper" companies to open up their services and platforms to other companies and developers.

The DMA will have a big impact on Apple's platforms, and it could result in Apple making major changes to the App Store, Messages, FaceTime, and Siri. Apple is planning to implement sideloading support to comply with the new European regulations by next year.