AltStore is a third-party app store that allows you to install apps on your iOS device that are not available in the App Store. It works by setting up a server on your Mac or Windows 10 PC, which then communicates with your iOS device over Wi-Fi.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to install AltStore on your PC and start downloading apps to your iOS device without using the App Store. Here are the seven best and most popular App Store alternatives to install your apps on your iOS device.
Steps to Install AltStore on Your PC
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to install AltStore on your PC (Windows or macOS):
Step 1: How to Download AltServer
The first step to take is to get AltStore set up on your PC. To do this:
- Visit the official AltStore website on your PC.
- Click on the “Get AltStore” button.
- Choose the version of AltServer that matches your PC’s operating system (Windows or macOS) and download it.
Step 2: How to Install AltServer
Once you have downloaded the AltServer on your PC, install it. To do so:
- Locate the downloaded AltServer installer file and run it.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process. Ensure that you grant any necessary permissions.
Step 3: How to Install iTunes on Your PC
If you haven’t already, make sure you have iTunes installed on your PC. AltServer relies on iTunes for certain functionalities.
To install iTunes on your PC, follow these steps:
- Open a web browser and go to the iTunes download page: https://www.apple.com/itunes/download/.
- Click the Download button to save the installation file to your computer.
- Once the file has been downloaded, double-click it to open the installer.
- Click Next to begin the installation process.
- Select the components that you want to install, and then click Next.
- Click Install to start the installation process.
- Once the installation is complete, click Finish.
Step 4: How to Launch AltServer
After the installation is complete:
- Launch AltServer.
- You’ll find it in your system tray (Windows) or the menu bar (macOS).
- Click on the AltServer icon to open the menu, and then select “Install AltStore.“
Step 5: How to Sign In to Your Apple ID
A window will pop up, asking you to sign in with your Apple ID. This is essential for AltStore to generate app-specific certificates.
Once signed in, AltStore will begin the installation process.
Step 6: How to Install Apps via AltStore
After AltStore is successfully installed on your PC, you can use it to browse, install, and manage apps.
Download the apps you want from the AltStore app on your iOS device. They will be sideloaded onto your PC. Here are a few steps to download and install apps using the AltStore without any problems.
Step 7: How to Trust the App Certificate
When you try to open a sideloaded app on your iOS device, you may see an “Untrusted Enterprise Developer” message. To fix this:
- Go to the “Settings” app
- Select “General” and click on “Device Management” (or “Profiles & Device Management“) and trust the AltStore certificate associated with the app.
Now you’ve successfully installed AltStore on your PC and sideloaded apps onto your iOS device. You can now explore a wide range of apps and customize your device to your liking, all without the need for jailbreaking.
FAQs – How to Install AltStore on Your PC
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about installing AltStore on your PC:
What is AltStore, and why would I want to install it on my PC?
AltStore is a third-party app store primarily designed for iOS devices. Installing AltStore on your PC allows you to manage, sideload, and update apps on your iOS device without the need for jailbreaking. It provides a secure and convenient way to explore a variety of apps.
Is AltStore safe to use on my PC and iOS device?
Yes, AltStore is a safe and secure method for sideloading apps onto your iOS device. It does not require jailbreaking, ensuring the integrity of your device’s security and warranty.
What do I need before installing AltStore on my PC?
Before installing AltStore, you’ll need to download AltServer, ensure you have iTunes installed on your PC, and have a valid Apple ID for app-specific certificate generation.
How do I install AltStore on my PC?
The installation process involves downloading AltServer, installing it, launching AltServer, signing in with your Apple ID, and then using AltStore to sideload apps onto your iOS device. The detailed steps can be found in the article.
Can I manage and update sideloaded apps from my PC using AltStore?
AltStore on your PC provides a convenient way to manage and update sideloaded apps on your iOS device.
Do I need to jailbreak my iOS device to use AltStore?
AltStore does not require you to jailbreak your iOS device. It operates within Apple’s developer tools to sideload apps securely.
Can I use AltStore to install any app I want on my iOS device?
AltStore allows you to sideload apps that are compatible with its platform. However, it may not work for apps that are specifically designed to be exclusive to the official Apple App Store.
Is AltStore available for both Windows and macOS?
AltStore is available for both Windows and macOS operating systems. You can choose the version that matches your PC’s operating system when downloading AltServer.
Is AltStore free to use?
AltStore is generally free to use, but it may offer certain premium features or apps that may require a purchase or donation to access.