By using the pre-installed corporate app stores, you let them know what you are running on your device.
But on most devices, it is possible to install software directly from an installation program. This process today is called „sideloading“, but it was the normal thing to do until 2008, when Apple and then Google introduced a central app store.
Sideloading
Sideloading is easy on laptops and personal computer: just download the installer files from the manufactorer.
On Android devices sideloading works well. You can install software through downloading „.apk“ files, after you set your device to accept software from „unknown origin“ in your preferences under security.
Alternative appstores
If you don’t want to sideload, you can also use alternative app stores.
For Android:
- F-Droid: App store with free and open-source software
- Aurora Store: App store mimicking a Play Store account. You get to choose if you want to login anonymous or with your G account.
- AppToide
For iPhones (available only for residents in the EU):
- AltStore PAL
- Apptoide for iOS (mostly games)
- SetApp (paid, interesting for computing professionals)
Using alternative app stores does not allow you to purchase apps. To do so, you need to use the corporate app store of your device. But you can try to disable it after again.
Using alternative app stores as well does not support in-app purchases. But this might be even a plus, especially on kids devices.
Collected in Linz, 2024