How to Install IPA on iPad: Step-by-Step (iPadOS)

Installing an IPA on an iPad works exactly the same way as on an iPhone. iPadOS uses the same signing rules. There are a few iPad-specific details, though, and this guide covers them.

Universal vs iPhone-only IPAs

Most games ship as a universal IPA. One file contains layouts for both iPhone and iPad, and iPadOS picks the right one. An iPhone-only IPA still installs on an iPad, but it runs in compatibility mode: a phone-shaped window that you can scale to 2×. It works fine, but it looks softer. Every game in our IPA games for iPad list supports iPad natively.

Step-by-step on iPad

Pick a method. AltStore (computer on the same Wi-Fi) or SideStore (computer once). Setup is the same as on iPhone.
Connect the iPad. Newer iPads use USB-C, so use a USB-C cable, or a USB-C to USB-A cable for older computers.
Trust: Settings › General › VPN & Device Management › your Apple ID › Trust.
Developer Mode (iPadOS 16+): Settings › Privacy & Security › Developer Mode.
Install: open the tool › My Apps › + › pick the IPA from Files.

iPad-specific tips

Storage: big games (racing, open-world) can grow to several GB after first launch. Check the size on each game page before you install.
Files app: on iPad you can drag an IPA from a USB drive or SMB share into Files, then open it in AltStore or SideStore.
Stage Manager: most games run full-screen, but compatibility-mode apps can sit in a small window next to others.
Controllers: iPadOS supports Xbox, PlayStation and MFi controllers. Pair them in Settings › Bluetooth.
Keyboard & mouse: some games support a Magic Keyboard or trackpad directly.

Shared Apple ID limits

If you sideload on both an iPhone and an iPad with the same free Apple ID, each device has its own 3 active app slots. However, both share the 10 new App IDs per 7 days limit, so installing many different apps across devices uses it up quickly.

Problems? See why an IPA installation fails.

Frequently asked questions

Can iPhone IPA files run on iPad?

Usually yes. Apps built for iPhone only run on iPad in compatibility mode, in a phone-sized window that you can scale up.

Do sideloaded apps count against the iPhone's 3-app limit?

The limit applies to each Apple ID and each device. The iPad has its own 3 active slots, but the 10 App IDs per week are shared across all devices on that Apple ID.

Do I need a different IPA for iPad?

No. Most IPAs are universal and include both the iPhone and iPad layouts in one file.

Keep reading

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