Information is up to date as of August 4, 2025
Quick Overview
If you want to install unofficial apps on your iPhone without jailbreaking, three tools currently stand out: Nugget iOS, Misaka, and AltStore. Each works differently and suits different kinds of users.
- Nugget iOS allows you to install apps directly on your device without needing a computer. It’s good for people who care about privacy.
- Misaka is more technical. It’s open source and uses a computer to help sign apps before installing. It’s for advanced users comfortable with command-line tools.
- AltStore is the most popular and mature tool. It needs a computer running AltServer to sideload and refresh apps regularly.
This guide breaks down how they work, their strengths and weaknesses, and who they are best for. It also answers common questions to help you pick the right one in 2025.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Nugget iOS | Misaka | AltStore |
|---|---|---|---|
| How you install | Fully on device, no PC needed | Uses computer and CLI tools | Uses computer and AltServer |
| iOS versions supported | iOS 16 and later | iOS 14 and later | iOS 13 and later |
| Signing method | On-device signing with temporary certificates | Uses Apple developer accounts and manual signing | Easy, beginner-friendly |
| Updates | Manual re-sign in app | Depends on the computer running AltServer | Automatic refresh via AltServer |
| Security | No central servers, low exposure | Depends on how you manage certificates | Central server needed, some risks |
| Stability | High, no external servers | Depends on user setup | Uses Apple ID, renews every 7 days,s free or yearly paid |
| Ease of use | Technical, CLI-based | Need for a computer | Friendly GUI but needs PC |
| Types of apps supported | Standard IPA apps and emulators | Standard IPA apps, more flexible | Standard IPA apps and emulators |
| Works with the AltStore ecosystem | No | Yes | Yes |
| Limits | Apple provisioning profile limits | Apple developer account limits | Apple free account 7-day limits |
| Resistance to detection | High due to no servers | Moderate, depends on certificate handling | Lower, centralized server risks |
| Open source status | Fully open source | Fully open source | Partially open source |
| Integration | Mostly standalone | CLI extensible | Same, but uses Apple ID |
| Performance impact | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal, but uses PC resources |
| Legal considerations | Grey area, no jailbreak | Same as Nugget | Certificates expire, manually resign |
| Common failures and fixes | Certificates expire, manual resign | Manual resign needed, user errors possible | Certificates revoked, need computer refresh |
Who Should Use Which Tool
| User Type | Best Tool(s) | Why and Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Casual user with no computer | Nugget iOS | Fully on device, easy to use, manual updates |
| Developer testing apps | AltStore with paid developer account | Reliable 1-year signing, automatic refresh |
| Privacy-focused user | Nugget iOS or Misaka | Avoid central servers, more control |
| Power user wanting flexibility | Misaka and AltStore combo | Deep control with CLI and easier refresh |
| Users on older iOS versions | AltStore | Supports back to iOS 13 |
| User with limited PC access | Nugget iOS | No computer needed |
Nugget iOS In Detail
Nugget iOS works completely on your iPhone if you run iOS 16 or later. It lets you install unsigned apps without a PC by signing apps locally with temporary certificates. It uses Apple’s private APIs inside a sandbox for security.
How to install
- Download Nugget from its official source
- Install it using a test profile or a sideloading app
- Open Nugget and import IPA files from your phone’s storage
- Nugget signs and installs the apps on your device
Tips for best results
- Keep Nugget updated for new certificate fixes
- Use trusted IPA sources to avoid tampered files
- Backup your apps so you don’t lose them if certificates expire
Watch out for
- You have to manually resign apps when certificates expire
- No automatic updates yet
- Some system limits on app permissions because of sandboxing
To stay safe
- Limit Nugget’s network access
- Use VPN or private Wi-Fi when downloading IPAs
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for installs
If you switch from AltStore or Misaka, export your apps and resign them in Nugget. Some apps might not work perfectly after resigning.
Misaka In Detail
Misaka is a command-line tool for advanced users. It runs on Mac or Linux and helps you resign apps using Apple developer accounts. It works with iOS 14 and up.
How to install
- Clone the Misaka GitHub repository
- Install required software like Python and libimobiledevice
- Set up your Apple developer account credentials
- Use commands to resign and install IPA files on your connected device
Tips for best results
- Use a dedicated developer account for signing
- Automate certificate renewals with scripts
- Keep Misaka updated for fixes
Things to watch out for
- The command line can be tricky for beginners
- You have to manage certificates yourself
- System updates can break compatibility
Security advice
- Keep your developer account info safe
- Use Misaka only on trusted machines
- Don’t store certificates where others can access
If moving from AltStore or Nugget, export your apps as IPA files and resign with Misaka.
AltStore In Detail
AltStore is the most widely used tool. It needs a computer running AltServer to sideload apps and refresh them automatically every 7 days for free accounts or yearly for paid accounts.
How to install
- Download and install AltServer on your Windows or Mac computer
- Connect your iPhone via USB or Wi-Fi
- Use AltServer to install AltStore on your device
- Open AltStore on your iPhone and install IPA files
- Keep AltServer running to refresh your apps automatically
Tips for best results
- Use a paid Apple developer account for a 1-year signing
- Keep AltServer running in the background
- Pair your device with AltServer for Wi-Fi refresh
Watch out for
- Needs a computer to work, no fully on-device option
- Network problems can interrupt app refresh
- Apple might flag or revoke your Apple ID if abused
Security tips
- Use a separate Apple ID just for sideloading
- Secure your computer with a firewall and antivirus software
- Only install trusted IPA files
To switch from other tools, export IPA files, and import them into AltStore.
Pros and Cons Summary
Nugget iOS
Pros
- No computer needed
- Low network risk
- Harder for Apple to detect
Cons
- Works only on iOS 16 and above
- Manual re-signing
- No auto-updates yet
- Smaller community
Misaka
Pros
- Open source
- Supports iOS 14 and up
- Full control via the command line
- No central servers
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Needs a computer and manual setup
- Risk of mistakes in certificate handling
AltStore
Pros
- Mature and popular
- User-friendly
- Automatic app refresh
- Wide device support
Cons
- Needs a computer running AltServer
- Central server risk
- Certificates can be revoked
Frequently Asked Questions
What if Apple revokes the certificate?
You have to resign and reinstall the app. AltStore refreshes automatically; Nugget and Misaka require manual resign.
Can I use these on the latest iOS?
Nugget supports iOS 16+, Misaka iOS 14+, and AltStore iOS 13+. Check each tool for updates.
Which tools don’t need a PC?
Only Nugget iOS works fully without a computer.
Is my data safe?
Nugget and Misaka have minimal network use. AltStore uses your Apple ID and your computer, so keep those secure.
How do I back up apps?
Save IPA files and signing info externally. Reinstall the tool and apps after restoring iOS.
Can I install jailbreak tweaks?
No. These tools only install normal IPA apps.
Are these tools legal?
They operate in a grey area but don’t jailbreak. Use at your own risk.
What if I lose Apple developer account info?
You won’t be able to resign or refresh apps until you recover them.
How often do I refresh apps?
AltStore is free every 7 days, paid yearly. Nugget and Misaka depend on certificate expiry.
Can I use multiple Apple IDs?
Yes, but it adds complexity.
Is AltStore open source?
The iOS app is open source. AltServer is partly open.
Does Nugget require jailbreaking?
No, it works on non-jailbroken devices.
What if an app crashes?
Try reinstalling or updating the sideloading tool. It could be expired certificates or iOS version issues.
Can updates be automated in Nugget or Misaka?
Not yet. Manual steps are needed.
Are these safe on work devices?
They might violate company policies. Use with caution.