Alternative Installation Methods

Sideloading and building from source as alternatives to the App Store

For advanced users who prefer alternatives to the App Store.

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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

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Installation Options

1. Sideloading (Easiest Alternative)

Use AltStore to install Provenance IPA files without a computer (after initial setup).

📖 Full Sideloading Guide →

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)

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2. Building from Source (Developers)

Compile Provenance yourself from the GitHub source code.

📖 Full Building Guide →

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)

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Comparison: Installation Methods

Method	Difficulty	Cost	Updates	Best For
App Store	⭐ Easiest	Free (Plus optional)	Automatic	Most users
Sideloading	⭐⭐ Moderate	Free	Manual	Free alternative
Building	⭐⭐⭐ Advanced	Free	Manual rebuild	Developers

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Feature Comparison

Feature	App Store	Sideloading	Building from Source
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	❌	❌	✅

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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:

1. Backup library and saves from current installation

2. Install new version via preferred method

3. Restore backup to new installation

See backup guide →

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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

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Next Steps

Choose your method:

• 📱 App Store Installation - Recommended for most users

• 🔧 Sideloading Guide - Free alternative

• 💻 Building from Source - Developers

After installation:

• Import ROMs

• BIOS Requirements

• Controller Setup

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Need help? Check the Advanced Installation FAQ or ask on Discord.