iOS 18 brings several changes that affect sideloading. If you're planning to sideload apps on iOS 18, here's everything you need to know about what's changed and how to get started.
What's New in iOS 18 for Sideloading?
iOS 18 continues Apple's approach to sideloading with some notable updates:
- Developer Mode still required — iOS 18 maintains the Developer Mode requirement introduced in iOS 16
- Improved certificate management — Better error messages and certificate status visibility
- Enhanced security — Stricter validation of developer certificates
- EU sideloading support — Limited sideloading support in EU countries (iOS 17.4+), with potential expansion in iOS 18
Is iOS 18 Compatible with SideStore and iLoader?
Yes! Both SideStore and iLoader work with iOS 18. Here's what you need to know:
- SideStore — Fully compatible with iOS 18. Make sure you're using the latest version.
- iLoader — Works perfectly with iOS 18 for installing SideStore and managing certificates.
- Developer Mode — Still required on iOS 18. See our Enable Developer Mode guide.
How to Sideload on iOS 18
The process is the same as iOS 17 and iOS 16:
- Enable Developer Mode — Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Developer Mode and enable it
- Restart your device — Required after enabling Developer Mode
- Download iLoader — Get iLoader for your computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
- Connect your device — Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone or iPad
- Install SideStore — Use iLoader to install SideStore automatically
- Start sideloading — Use SideStore to install and manage apps
See our How to Install IPA on iPhone guide for detailed steps.
Changes from iOS 17
If you're upgrading from iOS 17:
- Developer Mode persists — Your Developer Mode setting carries over, but you may need to re-enable it after major updates
- Apps remain installed — Sideloaded apps stay on your device, but may need refreshing
- Certificates remain valid — Your certificates continue to work, but check expiration dates
- SideStore compatibility — Update SideStore to the latest version for best iOS 18 compatibility
EU Sideloading Changes
Starting with iOS 17.4, Apple introduced limited sideloading support in EU countries due to regulatory requirements:
- EU-only — Currently limited to European Union countries
- Alternative app stores — Allows third-party app stores in EU
- Restrictions apply — Still requires developer accounts and has limitations
- Traditional sideloading — SideStore and iLoader still work worldwide, including EU
For most users, traditional sideloading with SideStore and iLoader remains the best option.
Tips for iOS 18 Sideloading
- Update SideStore — Make sure you're using the latest version for iOS 18 compatibility
- Keep Developer Mode enabled — Don't disable it unless necessary
- Refresh apps regularly — With a free Apple Developer account, refresh apps weekly. See our refresh guide.
- Monitor certificates — Use iLoader to manage certificates and avoid hitting the 3-certificate limit
- Stay updated — Keep iOS 18 updated for security patches
Troubleshooting iOS 18 Issues
If you encounter issues on iOS 18:
- Apps won't install — Ensure Developer Mode is enabled and you've restarted your device
- Certificate errors — Check certificate status in iLoader and revoke old certificates if needed
- SideStore won't open — Reinstall SideStore using iLoader
- Refresh fails — Check internet connection and ensure SideStore is updated
See our Fix Revoked Certificate guide for certificate issues.
What About Future iOS Versions?
Apple continues to evolve sideloading policies. While iOS 18 maintains current methods, future versions may introduce changes. We'll keep this guide updated as new information becomes available.
For now, iOS 18 sideloading works great with SideStore and iLoader. The process is stable and reliable.