Compared to the third-party iOS app download store service that previously required jailbreak,CydiaAltStore, which recently advertised itself as a software that can be installed and used without cracking, has obviously attracted a lot of attention.
AltStore, which is provided in an open source form, claims to obtain iOS device access authorization through developer credentials. This is different from the previous method of obtaining device authorization through enterprise credentials of many third-party apps. It will avoid being directly shut down by Apple due to specific factors or even the termination of certificate issuance, so it is relatively stable.
However, AltStore currently does not have many third-party apps on the shelves. It currently only provides Delta, a game console emulator that can correspond to game ROM files of Nintendo, Super Nintendo, Game Boy, Nintnedo 64, etc., and Clip, a content clipping manager.
The reason why AltStore has attracted attention is that it uses Apple developer certificate permissions and can install bridge software in macOS or Windows environments. After the iOS device is connected to the PC in wired form, it can log in to the AltStore service and install various third-party services.
Since the download is done through a bridge connection, it is almost impossible for Apple to block this download mode. In addition, the device can be used without jailbreaking, and the device itself will not even have any warranty issues. Perhaps in the future, more third-party illegal apps that Apple cannot control or restrict will be circulated widely.
However, it is difficult to say whether the AltStore service, which is used in an open source form, will face the same difficulties as Cydia in maintaining operations and maintenance in the future due to cost and other issues.
