AltStore provides a sideloading platform that lets iOS users discover and install apps not available in the official App Store, including those from independent developers. The service includes a built‑in permissions viewer and automatic alerts for changes, ensuring secure installations, while allowing anyone to create a “source” file to distribute their own apps instantly. AltStore is open‑source and focuses on giving users a reliable, community‑driven alternative for iOS app distribution.
Funding
$6M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
iOS users are limited to apps approved by Apple’s App Store, preventing access to independent or experimental applications that do not meet Apple’s guidelines. This restriction reduces device functionality and limits developers’ ability to distribute their software directly to users.
Solution
AltStore provides a sideloading platform that enables iOS users to discover and install apps outside the official App Store. The service presents a curated catalog of verified indie apps and allows any developer to self‑publish by creating a simple source file that AltStore reads to list their apps. Security is emphasized by displaying each app’s full permission set on its store page and automatically notifying users of any permission changes. AltStore is open‑source, encouraging community contributions and transparency while extending iOS capabilities beyond Apple’s curated selection.
Target Audience
AltStore targets iOS power users seeking additional functionality and independent developers who want to distribute apps directly to iOS devices without going through the App Store.
Features
- Integrated app catalog showing verified third‑party iOS applications
- Self‑publishing workflow using a plain‑text source file that instantly adds apps to the store
- Permission transparency with a detailed list per app and change alerts for users
- Open‑source codebase hosted on GitHub, enabling community-driven development and audits
- Support for indie developers through a dedicated “by indies
- for indies” ethos