If you download an app from AltStore, it’ll be available for 7 days before Apple’s developer restrictions kick in. But don’t worry, AltStore automatically refreshes your apps every 7 days to keep things running. [2] X Research source To install an app from an IPA file on AltStore, start by downloading the IPA from a site you trust. [3] X Research source Really, do your research so you don’t get malware! Then, open AltStore, tap My Apps, tap +, and select the IPA file.
There is a catch to using AppCake without jailbreaking—it’s only able to work on non-jailbroken devices by installing enterprise certificates. Apple gets cranky about this and periodically revokes such certificates. When that happens, the app stops working, which means you’ll have to wait days, weeks, and sometimes longer before you can reinstall. Once-popular apps like Tweakbox no longer work on non-jailbroken devices because of this problem. If you’re unable to use AppCake because the certificate is revoked, the developer recommends a paid option called iPASTORE. [5] X Research source iPASTORE provides full revoke coverage, meaning that if Apple revokes it certificate, it issues a new one immediately. [6] X Research source
Jailbreaking is only recommended for advanced users, as it allows you to install apps and tweaks that aren’t reviewed by Apple. A jailbroken iPhone is also more susceptible to malware, but your risk of infection has a lot to do with your personal browsing habits. The jailbreak process may render your phone inoperable if you don’t follow the instructions exactly. Jailbreaking will void your warranty, but you can easily remove the jailbreak before sending it in for warranty service.
