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I wonder about being able to sideload — because I sell a relatively expensive app on the App Store (at least, expensive in App Store terms: $10). If sideloadin

I wonder about being able to sideload — because I sell a relatively expensive app on the App Store (at least, expensive in App Store terms: $10). If sideloading were possible I wonder if it would increase the piracy rate for my app, on which I make a living. Personally, I would love to do away with the certificates and signing and be able to run whatever. But I wonder if it would hurt my business. I realise that piracy is already possible, but I suspect any form of sideloading makes it a far more accessible option. Edit: as I said, I'm pretty aware of the sucky bits. My review process (expedited!) went on for months while the trademark dispute played out. It was an incredibly anxious time.

nkeets 13y ago
There is a 3rd option here: Allow apps to bypass review. These apps will be hosted on Apple and charged the 30% fee, but they will not be indexed and not be displayed in any way on iTunes. You will have to have a direct link to buy them and download them.
mikeash 13y ago
As is typical with software developers, you ask the wrong question. It doesn't matter if it increases the piracy rate. What matters is whether it decreases your purchase rate. It's possible that sideloading would decrease your purchase rate. I don't think so, but I wouldn't rule it out. Even then, I think people's freedom to do what they want on their own hardware overrules potential harm to your business, to the extent that I find it incredibly weird to propose it.