How can I opt out of third party App Stores on iOS?

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Level 1

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How can I opt out of third party App Stores on iOS?

Many countries, most recently my own (Australia) have found the Apple App Store uncompetitive.

Being fairly privacy/security conscious, ideally I'm hoping Apple can implement a system on iOS similar to that on macOS, where it's possible to opt out of allowing unsigned/untrusted apps to be installed, essentially locking the phone by user choice into just allowing the Apple App Store and trusted/signed apps.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Third party app stores - opt out

iPhone 14 Pro

Posted on Aug 12, 2025 02:09 AM

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Answer 1

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Phil0124

Level 10

214,309 points

Aug 12, 2025 09:42 AM in response to notjnv

Since you need to actually opt-in to 3rd party stores and apps, there is nothing to opt out of. The 3rd party stores available in certain countries need to be explicitly installed by you. It is not allowed by default even in countries where this is an option. So there's nothing you need to do to continue to use the Apple App Store.

Australia is not a country where Apple allows 3rd party app stores however. So you have nothing to worry about.

click here ➜ Installing apps through alternative app distribution in the European Union - Apple Support

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