Introduction
If you have ever wished you could customize your iPhone without jailbreaking, you are not alone. In 2025, there are more options than ever for safely installing tweaks and unofficial apps without breaking Apple’s security model.
But not all tweak installers are equal. Some are safer, easier to use, or better supported than others. In this guide, I will walk you through the best iOS tweak installers in 2025 with a special focus on Nugget iOS, which stands out as one of the most reliable and user-friendly options this year.
Whether you are a complete beginner or a long-time iOS modder, this guide will help you choose the installer that fits your needs.
Table of Contents
- What Are iOS Tweak Installers
- Top iOS Tweak Installers in 2025
- Nugget iOS
- AltStore 2025
- TrollStore 2
- Scarlet
- Sideloadly
- Esign 2025
- Comparative Table of Features
- Why Nugget iOS Stands Out in 2025
- Legal and Ethical Considerations
- Conclusion Choosing the Best Installer
- FAQ
What Are iOS Tweak Installers
An iOS tweak installer is a tool that lets you install unofficial apps, custom tweaks, and hidden features on your iPhone or iPad without a traditional jailbreak.
These installers often use sideloading or developer certificates to give you more control over your device while avoiding the risks of full system-level exploits. They have become especially popular as Apple has tightened security, making traditional jailbreaks harder to achieve.
Top iOS Tweak Installers in 2025
Below you will find my detailed analysis of the top tweak installers you can use this year.
Nugget iOS
Nugget iOS is one of the most popular and polished tweak installers available in 2025.
Key 2025 Features and Updates
- Built-in repository browser to find and install verified tweaks easily
- No jailbreak is required thanks to advanced sideloading and entitlement techniques
- New Safe Mode feature in 2025 that lets you test tweaks in a sandbox before applying them system-wide
- OTA signing service that reduces the hassle of renewing certificates
- Ability to unlock hidden iOS features such as customizing the Control Center or changing icon layouts
- A curated, community-reviewed tweak library that reduces security risks
- Broad compatibility with iPhone and iPad models running iOS 15 through 18 and newer
Pros
- Easy-to-use interface suitable for beginners
- Strong security with community-verified tweaks
- No computer is required for OTA signing
- Active support and regular updates
Cons
- Advanced tweaks may require limited developer permissions
- Unlimited OTA signing typically requires a paid plan
Nugget iOS stands out because it combines a user-friendly approach with strong security measures, making it a top choice for both newcomers and experienced users.
AltStore 2025
AltStore remains one of the most trusted sideloading solutions.
Key 2025 Updates
- Integrated AltJIT support for more advanced app capabilities
- New Cloud Sync feature to keep your sideloaded apps consistent across devices
- Improved support for iOS 18
Pros
- Free and open-source
- Strong community support
- No jailbreak needed
Cons
- Requires a computer to refresh apps every seven days
- Limited to three sideloaded apps with a free Apple ID
AltStore is a solid choice if you want a reliable and free way to sideload your own .ipa files.
TrollStore 2
TrollStore 2 is designed for advanced users who want deeper customization.
Key 2025 Features
- Permanent app signing on supported devices
- Supports advanced system tweaks even without a jailbreak
- Full support for iOS 15 and 16.7, partial for 17 and 18
Pros
- True permanent sideloading without expiry
- Access to powerful tweaks
Cons
- Depends on specific exploits and is not compatible with all devices
- Requires caution to avoid system issues
TrollStore 2 is excellent for power users who want maximum control over their devices.
Scarlet
Scarlet is known for its attractive design and simple signing service.
Key 2025 Updates
- Integrated web-based signing system
- Improved support for iOS 18
- Expanded tweak compatibility
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Built-in app library
- OTA signing available
Cons
- Apple certificate revocations can still be a problem
- Signing service availability can be inconsistent
Scarlet is a good choice for users who want a well-designed installer with easy signing options.
Sideloadly
Sideloadly is a desktop-based sideloading tool that offers great flexibility.
Key 2025 Features
- Drag-and-drop .ipa installation
- Support for custom entitlements
- New Wi-Fi sideloading feature
Pros
- Works on both Windows and macOS
- Very flexible and customizable
- Suitable for developers and advanced users
Cons
- Requires a computer
- Slightly more manual setup
Sideloadly is perfect if you want control and do not mind using a computer.
Esign 2025
Esign is an on-device signing solution that is especially beginner-friendly.
Key 2025 Updates
- New Pro plan with stable enterprise certificates
- Support for iOS 18
- Improved user interface
Pros
- Fully on-device, no computer needed
- Built-in file manager for .ipa files
- Simple and accessible
Cons
- Best certificates require paid plans
- Certificate revocations remain a risk
Esign is great for casual users who want a simple on-device installer.
Comparative Table of Features
| Installer | Jailbreak Required | Signing Method | iOS Support | Best For | Notable 2025 Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nugget iOS | No | OTA and Cloud | 15 to 18+ | Best overall, safe tweaking | Safe Mode, Repo Browser, OTA Signing |
| AltStore | No | Requires Computer | 12 to 18+ | Free sideloading, .ipa files | AltJIT, Cloud Sync |
| TrollStore | No (needs exploit) | Exploit-based | 15 to 16.7+ | Permanent signing, advanced | Permanent sideloading on supported devices |
| Scarlet | No | OTA and Web | 14 to 18+ | Ease of use, app library | Improved OTA signing, iOS 18 UI |
| Sideloadly | No | USB or Wi-Fi | 12 to 18+ | Developers, advanced sideload | Wi-Fi sideloading, custom entitlements |
| Esign | No | On-device | 14 to 18+ | Beginners, casual sideloading | Pro Plan with stable enterprise certs |
Why Nugget iOS Stands Out in 2025
Let us look at why I believe Nugget iOS is the best option this year.
It is not just another sideloading tool. Nugget iOS was designed to make customization easy and safe for everyone.
Ease of Use
Nugget iOS has an interface that is simple enough for beginners but offers advanced settings for those who want more control.
Safe Mode
One of the best new features in 2025 is Safe Mode. It lets you test tweaks in a secure sandbox so you do not risk bricking your device.
Verified Tweak Repository
Nugget includes a library of tweaks that have been reviewed and verified by the community. This reduces the chance of installing something harmful or incompatible.
OTA and Cloud Signing
Forget about constantly refreshing certificates on your computer. Nugget’s OTA signing works directly on your device, even handling Apple’s latest revocation challenges.
Broad Compatibility
Supports iPhones and iPads running iOS 15 through 18 and beyond.
Security Focus
Nugget is designed with multiple security layers, including sandboxing, entitlement management, and ongoing vulnerability scans.
Community Support
Active forums, Discord servers, and frequent updates from the developers keep the platform current and trustworthy.
If you want a reliable, safe, and modern tweak installer in 2025, Nugget iOS is hard to beat.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Before you jump in, it is important to understand a few things.
Modifying your iPhone in ways Apple did not intend can void your warranty.
Using tweak installers is legal if you use them to install legitimate apps or customizations, but pirating paid apps is not only unethical but illegal.
Always use trusted sources and communities to avoid malware or harmful tweaks.
Installers like Nugget iOS make it easier to stay safe, but the final responsibility is yours.
Conclusion – Choosing the Best Installer
In 2025, customizing your iPhone is easier and safer than ever.
AltStore, TrollStore, Scarlet, Sideloadly, and Esign all have their strengths. But Nugget iOS stands out for its combination of security, ease of use, advanced features like Safe Mode, and excellent OTA signing.
If you want to get started with iOS tweaking without the risks of a traditional jailbreak, Nugget iOS is my top recommendation.
FAQ
Is Nugget iOS free
Nugget offers a free tier with some limitations and a premium plan for unlimited OTA signing.
Does Nugget iOS work on iOS 18
Yes, it is fully compatible with iOS 18 and newer devices.
Do I need a computer to use Nugget iOS?
No, Nugget’s OTA signing works directly on your device.
Is it safe to use tweak installers?
If you choose reputable installers like Nugget iOS and avoid pirated content, the risks are minimal.