Alternative Installation Methods
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: February 2026
Last updated