Alternative Installation Methods
Sideloading and building from source as alternatives to the App Store
For advanced users who prefer alternatives to the App Store.
Why Use Alternative Methods?
Most users should use the App Store - it's easiest and updates automatically.
Consider alternatives if you:
Want Provenance completely free (no Provenance Plus subscription)
Need custom builds or modifications
Are in a region where Provenance isn't on the App Store
Prefer open-source transparency (build from source)
Want to contribute to development
Installation Options
1. Sideloading (Easiest Alternative)
Use AltStore to install Provenance IPA files without a computer (after initial setup).
Best for: Users who want free alternative to App Store without development setup.
Pros:
No Xcode or development knowledge needed
Can install on any iOS device
All features unlocked (no Provenance Plus subscription)
Updates available (manual re-sideload)
Cons:
Initial setup requires computer
7-day limit with free Apple Developer account (AltStore auto-refreshes)
Manual updates (not automatic like App Store)
2. Building from Source (Developers)
Compile Provenance yourself from the GitHub source code.
Best for: Developers, contributors, or users who want maximum control.
Pros:
100% free and open-source
Can modify code and customize
Can contribute improvements back to project
Latest features before official release
Cons:
Requires macOS, Xcode, and development knowledge
More complex setup
Must rebuild for updates
Requires Apple Developer account (free or paid)
Comparison: Installation Methods
App Store
⭐ Easiest
Free (Plus optional)
Automatic
Most users
Sideloading
⭐⭐ Moderate
Free
Manual
Free alternative
Building
⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Free
Manual rebuild
Developers
Feature Comparison
All systems
✅
✅
✅
Save states
✅
✅
✅
Controllers
✅
✅
✅
Auto updates
✅
❌ Manual
❌ Manual
iCloud sync
Plus only
Custom setup
Custom setup
Beta access
Plus only
Manual IPA
Latest code
No subscription
❌ (Plus optional)
✅
✅
Code modifications
❌
❌
✅
Switching Between Methods
You can switch between installation methods, but note:
Data is NOT automatically shared:
App Store version stores data separately
Sideloaded/built versions use different directories
Manual backup/restore needed when switching
To migrate:
Backup library and saves from current installation
Install new version via preferred method
Restore backup to new installation
Recommendation
For 90% of users: Use the App Store version
Easiest installation
Automatic updates
Official support
Optional Plus features
For power users: Try sideloading if you want free alternative
For developers: Build from source to contribute or customize
Next Steps
Choose your method:
📱 App Store Installation - Recommended for most users
🔧 Sideloading Guide - Free alternative
💻 Building from Source - Developers
After installation:
Last updated
Was this helpful?