The process of installing applications on iOS devices outside of the official Apple App Store, specifically without employing jailbreaking techniques, involves utilizing alternative methods. These methods often rely on developer certificates, configuration profiles, or web-based application installation. For example, a business might distribute an internal application to its employees’ iPhones using a signed enterprise certificate, enabling installation without App Store review or jailbreaking the device.
Circumventing the standard App Store distribution model offers benefits such as accessing applications not approved by Apple, deploying custom applications for specific user groups (e.g., within an organization), and potentially avoiding App Store fees. Historically, this has been particularly useful for beta testing applications, deploying internal tools, or providing access to applications restricted by Apple’s policies. However, it’s important to consider potential security risks and the possibility of certificate revocation, which would render the installed applications unusable.
