What is Sideloading?
Installing applications from sources outside the official app store, which can enhance privacy by avoiding store tracking but requires caution about malware.
Sideloading lets you install apps without going through Google Play or the Apple App Store.
Privacy Benefits
- Avoid app store tracking and profiling
- Install open-source apps directly from developers (F-Droid)
- Use apps that have been removed from official stores
- Avoid mandatory app store account requirements
Risks
- No app store review process to catch malware
- Must trust the source of the APK/IPA file
- Auto-updates may not be available
- Sideloaded apps might not receive security patches promptly
Recommended Sources
- F-Droid: Open-source app store for Android (all apps are FOSS)
- GitHub Releases: Direct downloads from project repositories
- Developer websites: For apps like Signal, Brave, etc.
On iOS
Apple heavily restricts sideloading. The EU Digital Markets Act now requires Apple to allow alternative app stores in the EU.
Related Terms
App Permissions
Controls that determine what data and device features an app can access, including contacts, camera, microphone, location, and storage.
Open Source
Software whose source code is made freely available for anyone to view, modify, and distribute. In privacy tools, open source allows independent security researchers to verify that the software does what it claims and contains no backdoors or hidden surveillance capabilities.
Have more questions?
Use our guided flow to get the right next privacy step for Sideloading.
Open Guided Flow