Apple has made modifications to prevent users from sideloading iOS apps on the new M1 Macs.
Apple introduced new Macs running its custom M1 chip in November. The M1 is based on the same chips the company has been using for years in the iPhone and iPad. As a result, one big benefit of Apple’s processor switch is the ability to run iOS apps on the Mac.
While Mac users were excited to suddenly have access to the vast catalog of iOS apps, developers do have the option to prevent their apps from showing up in the Mac App Store. Many have done this as a temporary measure, as they have not modified their apps to look and function well on bigger screens. Others need changes to function well in a non-touch environment.
Enterprising users found ways of getting around developer blocks by using tools, such as iMazing, to connect their iPhone or iPads to their Macs and bring an app’s IPA file over to the Mac, essentially installing it. Needless to say, developers that had chosen not to have their apps show up on the Mac App Store were not happy, and Apple has now taken steps to rectify the situation, according to 9to5Mac.
Starting Friday, Apple made a server-side change to the App Stores that will now prevent Macs from running sideloaded apps. Mac users are sure to be disappointed although, hopefully, developers will put in the effort to make sure their apps look good on macOS and allow them to be installed legitimately.