Starting with iOS 16, Apple requires Developer Mode to be enabled before you can sideload apps. This is a security feature that must be manually enabled. Here's how to turn it on.
What is Developer Mode?
Developer Mode is a security feature introduced in iOS 16 that allows you to install and run apps from outside the App Store. It must be manually enabled in Settings, and your device will restart when you turn it on.
When Do You Need Developer Mode?
- iOS 16.0 and later — Required for sideloading
- iOS 15.x and earlier — Not required (Developer Mode doesn't exist)
- Sideloading apps — Needed for SideStore, AltStore, and other sideloading tools
- Installing IPAs — Required when using iLoader or other desktop tools
How to Enable Developer Mode (Step-by-Step)
- Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad
- Go to Privacy & Security
- Scroll down to find Developer Mode (it may be near the bottom)
- If you don't see Developer Mode, you may need to connect your device to a computer and run a developer tool first (like iLoader) to trigger it
- Toggle Developer Mode to ON
- Your device will prompt you to restart
- Tap Restart to reboot your device
- After restart, you'll see a prompt asking to confirm Developer Mode
- Tap Turn On to confirm
- Enter your passcode if prompted
- Developer Mode is now enabled!
If Developer Mode Doesn't Appear
If you don't see Developer Mode in Settings → Privacy & Security:
- Connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer
- Open iLoader or another developer tool
- Try to install an app or connect to your device
- This should trigger Developer Mode to appear in Settings
- Go back to Settings → Privacy & Security and enable it
After Enabling Developer Mode
Once Developer Mode is enabled:
- You can now sideload apps using SideStore, AltStore, or iLoader
- You may see a warning banner at the top of your screen indicating Developer Mode is on
- You can dismiss this banner, but Developer Mode will remain enabled
- You can disable Developer Mode anytime in Settings → Privacy & Security
Security Considerations
Developer Mode is a security feature that:
- Requires manual activation (can't be enabled remotely)
- Shows a persistent indicator when enabled
- Requires a passcode to confirm
- Can be disabled anytime in Settings
Enabling Developer Mode doesn't compromise your device's security. It simply allows you to install apps from outside the App Store, which is what sideloading requires.
Troubleshooting
- Can't find Developer Mode — Connect your device to a computer and run iLoader or Xcode to trigger it.
- Developer Mode keeps turning off — Make sure you confirmed it after restart. Check Settings → Privacy & Security again.
- Still can't sideload — Ensure Developer Mode is enabled AND you've trusted the developer profile in Settings → General → VPN & Device Management.
- iOS 15 or earlier — Developer Mode doesn't exist on iOS 15. You can sideload without it.
Next Steps
After enabling Developer Mode:
- Download iLoader for your computer
- Connect your device via USB
- Use iLoader to install SideStore
- Start sideloading apps!
See our How to Install IPA on iPhone guide for complete instructions.