SideStore is reliable when set up correctly, but a few common issues can make it seem like it's "not working." This guide walks you through the most frequent errors and how to fix them using iLoader and your device settings.
SideStore Won't Open or Crashes on Launch
If SideStore won't open or closes immediately:
- Check Developer Mode (iOS 16+): Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Developer Mode and ensure it's ON. Restart your device if you just enabled it. See Enable Developer Mode on iOS.
- Trust the developer: Go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management, tap your SideStore/developer profile, and choose Trust.
- Reinstall SideStore: Connect your device to your computer, open iLoader, sign in, and use "Install SideStore" again. iLoader will replace the existing install with a fresh one.
Apps Installed via SideStore Won't Open ("Unverified Developer")
This usually means the app's certificate expired or was revoked.
- With a free Apple Developer account, apps expire after about 7 days. Open SideStore and let it refresh your apps. See How to Refresh SideStore Apps.
- If you see "untrusted developer," go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management and trust the developer profile for that app.
- If refresh keeps failing, check your internet connection and Apple ID in SideStore. You may need to revoke old certificates in iLoader—see Fix Revoked Certificate.
ApplicationVerificationFailed or "Unable to Install"
These errors often mean you've hit Apple's limits or have a signing problem.
- 3 app limit (free account): Apple allows a limited number of active apps per free account. Remove apps you don't need, then try again.
- Certificate limit: You can only have a few active development certificates. Use iLoader to view and revoke old certificates. Guide: Fix Revoked Certificate.
- Update iLoader: Get the latest version from the download page or GitHub releases. Newer builds fix many signing issues.
Refresh Failed or SideStore Can't Refresh Apps
If SideStore can't refresh your sideloaded apps:
- Ensure you have a stable internet connection (Wi‑Fi or cellular).
- Open SideStore and stay on the app for a minute—sometimes it needs a moment to sync.
- Sign out and sign back in with your Apple ID inside SideStore if you changed your password or 2FA.
- If you use a custom Anisette or proxy, check that the server is reachable.
- Full walkthrough: Refresh SideStore Apps.
Device Not Detected in iLoader
If iLoader doesn't see your iPhone or iPad, you can't install or reinstall SideStore from the computer. Fixes:
- Use a data-capable USB cable (some cables charge only).
- Unlock your device and tap Trust This Computer when prompted.
- Windows: Install iTunes from Apple (required for usbmuxd). Restart the PC if needed.
- More: Troubleshooting – Device not detected.
Still Not Working?
Use our full Troubleshooting page for device, certificate, sign-in, and pairing issues. For bugs or feature requests, open an issue on GitHub.