Scarlet iOS vs AltStore: Which Is the Better App Store?

Although Apple does not officially support direct app installation from external sources, there are still several reliable ways to install external apps. For example, Scarlet iOS and AltStore are both reliable and easy methods to install tweaked apps and games.

By using these sideloading tools, you can access a wide range of mobile software, including exclusive tweaks, modified versions of popular games and apps, and beta releases. However, both tools offer different features, pros, and cons. If you want a detailed comparison, this article will explain everything.

Quick Overview Scarlet iOS vs AltStore

Features	Scarlet iOS	AltStore
Focus	Tweaked Apps	Tweaked Apps
Installation	Direct	Requires Computer
Revocation Risk	Prone to frequent revocations	Fewer revocation risks
Privacy	Not Transparent	Not Transparent
Community	Smaller community	Large Community

Why Users Need Third-Party App Stores

Although Apple is renowned for its privacy policy and security, it is often criticized for its monopolistic approach. For instance, Apple has imposed several limitations on the App Store, including:

• Limited App Selection: Despite having a vast library of apps, the official App Store still lacks many niche-specific applications, beta software, and modified versions of popular apps.
• High App Prices: Apple charges a 30% commission on in-app purchases, subscriptions, and digital goods sold through its ecosystem. This means if a user spends one dollar within an app, the developer only receives seventy cents.
• Strict Review Process: When a developer uploads an app to the App Store, Apple reviews it. However, the reviewing process can sometimes lead to rejections if the application does not meet guidelines. Due to these strict restrictions, developers and users often resort to jailbreaking their devices, which involves accessing the root of the iOS operating system to install custom software and tweaks.
• However, jailbreaking is a risky process that can compromise your device’s security and void warranties. To minimize these risks, several third-party app stores like AltStore, Cydia, and Scarlet iOS have been developed. These tools allow users to sideload apps directly onto iPhones and iPads without making any modifications to core iOS files.

What is Scarlet iOS?

Scarlet iOS is a third-party app store that allows users to install or sideload external apps on their iPhones and iPads. This means users can install apps not available on the official App Store without jailbreaking their devices.

Benefits of Using Scarlet iOS:

• Sideload or Install Any App: One of the major benefits of using Scarlet is that it allows sideloading tweaked versions of popular apps. You can also install any IPA file from known or unknown sources without making any modifications.
• Direct Installation: Unlike other sideloading tools, Scarlet allows you to install any modded app directly on your iOS device without needing a computer. There is no need for a computer to install Scarlet on an iPhone or iPad.
• App Management: Scarlet also allows you to manage installed software on your device. This means users can install, organize, remove, and update applications.
• Backup Features: Scarlet offers a built-in tool to back up the settings and data of installed apps. Not only can you take backups, but you can also restore them from one device to another.
• User-Friendly Interface: Scarlet offers a very user-friendly and easy-to-use interface, making the installation and sideloading process much smoother.

Drawbacks of Scarlet:

• Revocation Risk: Since this tool allows you to install tweaked apps, there is a high risk of app revocation. This means Apple might terminate the certifications, causing the installed software to stop working.
• Privacy and Security Concerns: Although this tool makes it easy to install tweaked or modified mobile applications, such apps also come with privacy and security concerns. External apps often lack a clear privacy policy and might contain malware or viruses in their code.

What is AltStore?

AltStore is one of the most popular and well-known third-party app stores for iOS devices. Like Scarlet, it also allows you to sideload and install apps without jailbreaking the device.

AltStore Features:

• No Jailbreak Required: AltStore makes the sideloading process easier without needing any complex steps or risking your device warranty.
• Automatic Re-signing: Unlike Scarlet, AltStore has a minimal risk of app revocation. You only need to set it up once and refresh the app every seven days.
• Established Reputation: AltStore has already built its credibility and reputation and is widely used within the community.
• Versatility: More versatile than other unofficial stores, it provides a wide range of apps to sideload, including those not available on the App Store.

Drawbacks of AltStore:

• Computer Required: To install this tool on an iPhone or iPad, you need a Windows or Mac PC, unlike Scarlet, which can be installed directly without a computer.
• Security and Privacy Concerns: Installing apps through AltStore is not entirely safe and secure. There are similar privacy and security concerns as when installing external apps through Scarlet.