AltStore provides a jailbreak-free method to install IPA files on iPhone and iPad devices. According to AltStore’s official documentation, the platform uses Apple’s developer certificate system to sideload applications without requiring device modifications. The installation process requires a computer running Windows or macOS, a Lightning or USB-C cable, and a free Apple ID account.
This is one of the simplest and most easy-to-follow methods for installing IPA files on iOSGodsIPA. Read the guide below to learn the full step-by-step installation process!
What Is AltStore and How Does It Work?
What is AltStore?
AltStore is an alternative app distribution platform that allows iOS users to sideload apps not available on the official App Store. According to The Verge, AltStore works by leveraging Apple’s developer provisioning system, which typically allows developers to test their own apps on physical devices.
The platform consists of two components: AltServer (runs on your computer) and AltStore (installs on your iOS device). AltServer communicates with Apple’s servers to sign apps using your Apple ID, then transfers them to your device.
How does AltStore install IPA apps without jailbreak?
AltStore installs apps by utilizing Apple’s free developer certificate program, which grants any Apple ID the ability to sign and install up to 10 app IDs. According to AltStore’s documentation, the process works through the following mechanism:
- AltServer authenticates your Apple ID with Apple’s servers
- Apple generates a 7-day developer certificate linked to your account
- AltServer signs the IPA file with this certificate
- The signed app transfers to your device via USB connection
Why do users prefer AltStore over the App Store?
Users choose AltStore to access applications that Apple does not permit on the official App Store. AltStore provides access to:
- Game emulators (Nintendo, PlayStation, retro systems)
- Install IPA or IPA Mod apps, games
- Beta versions of apps
- Inject utilities and tweaks
- Apps removed or rejected from the App Store
How to Install IPA/Modded IPA Apps With AltStore
How to sideload IPA files using AltStore
To sideload IPA files, download the IPA file on iOSGodsipa.com to your iOS device, then open it with AltStore to sign and install automatically. According to sideloading documentation, follow these installation steps:
- Download the desired IPA file using Safari or another browser
- Locate the downloaded IPA file in the Files app or Downloads folder
- Tap the IPA file to preview it
- Tap the Share button (square with upward arrow)
- Scroll and select “Copy to AltStore” from the share sheet
- Wait for AltStore to sign the app with your developer certificate
- The app icon appears on your home screen when installation completes
Alternative method: Launch AltStore, tap the “+” button, navigate to the IPA file location, and select it for installation.
How to update sideloaded apps through AltStore
To update sideloaded apps, download the newer IPA version and install it through AltStore, which replaces the existing app while preserving data. According to AltStore documentation, update apps using this process:
- Download the updated IPA file for your app
- Open the IPA with AltStore as described in the sideloading section
- AltStore recognizes the existing app and performs an update installation
- App data remains intact during the update process
AltStore’s “My Apps” tab displays available updates for apps installed through the built-in store.
Where to find IPA files safely
Download IPA files from trusted sources including official developer websites, GitHub repositories, and verified community platforms. According to security best practices, safe IPA sources include:
Verified sources:
- iOSGodsipa.com – Community-verified modified apps
- Official developer GitHub repositories
- Beta testing platforms (TestFlight alternatives)
- Developer websites offering direct downloads
- AltStore’s built-in source directory
Warning: Review app permissions in AltStore before installation to identify potential security risks.
Avoid downloading IPA files from unverified third-party websites or file-sharing platforms.
Why apps expire every 7 days (Apple certificate rules)
Apps expire every 7 days because Apple’s free developer certificates have a maximum validity period of 7 days. According to Apple’s developer program restrictions, free Apple IDs receive limited signing certificates designed for testing purposes, not long-term deployment.
Certificate expiration details:
- Free Apple ID certificates: Valid for 7 days
- Paid Apple Developer account certificates: Valid for 1 year
- Expired apps display “Unable to Verify App” error when launched
- Apps require re-signing to restore functionality
Connect your device to your computer running AltServer and open AltStore to refresh certificates before expiration.
What devices and iOS versions support AltStore?
AltStore Classic supports devices running iOS 9.3 or later. According to AltStore’s release notes, the platform checks iOS compatibility before installation and automatically downloads the latest compatible version for your device.
Note: AltStore PAL (the European Union version) requires iOS 17.4 or later. AltStore 1.6 supports iOS 14.0 through 16.1.2, excluding iOS 15.7.2.
Compatible devices include:
- iPhone 6s and newer models
- iPad Air 2 and newer models
- iPad mini 4 and newer models
- iPad Pro (all generations)
FAQs about how to install IPA files with AltStore
Can unsigned IPA files be installed via Altstore?
No, Altstore cannot install “unsigned” IPA files because they lack a valid developer signature, which is required to bypass Apple’s security. However, you can use Altstore to sideload IPAs that are signed with your own Apple ID, which makes them appear to be from a trusted developer.
Do you need a computer to use AltStore?
Yes, a computer is mandatory to install and maintain AltStore on your iOS device. AltStore requires a Windows 10 PC (or later) or a macOS computer to run AltServer, which handles the signing and installation process. The computer must remain accessible for weekly certificate refreshes.
Understanding Apple ID use and certificate limitations
Free Apple ID accounts can sign up to 10 app IDs simultaneously, with each certificate lasting exactly 7 days. Apps signed with a free Apple ID require renewal every 7 days to continue functioning.
Certificate limitations include:
- Maximum of 10 active app IDs per Apple ID (AltStore itself uses 1 slot)
- 7-day expiration period for free developer certificates
- Apps stop launching when certificates expire
- Renewal requires connecting device to computer running AltServer