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Mac App Store Distribution

Discussions focus on the non-mandatory use of the Mac App Store for macOS apps, highlighting direct downloads, sideloading options, sandboxing limitations, and comparisons to iOS restrictions.

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Keywords

GitLab SourceForge HN ID gitlab.com MAS Installer.app OS ExtensionKit macrumors.com app store mac app store mac app mac app store apps admin directory download

Sample Comments

arcticbull • Nov 2, 2024 • View on HN

macOS has no such restrictions as it does not require the App Store.

narkee • Dec 12, 2011 • View on HN

Because on the Mac, applications can be loaded directly, and do not require App Store approval.

aurareturn • Jun 11, 2024 • View on HN

You don’t have to use the App Store on MacOS.

_b8r0 • Jan 7, 2011 • View on HN

Why should I use this instead of the Mac App store? (1st as a user, secondly as a developer)

vimy • Sep 21, 2013 • View on HN

The mac app store is a standalone app.

mitjak • Mar 7, 2011 • View on HN

In light of the Mac App store they probably will :/

MarkMc • May 7, 2017 • View on HN

I think Mac already has this for applications in the Mac App Store.

SmellyGeekBoy • Nov 9, 2018 • View on HN

Is this not the idea behind the Mac App Store?

justincormack • Oct 23, 2025 • View on HN

Mac app store distribution is not that common. Some apps are available in the store or as direct downloads. The store adds the sandboxing restrictions, which dont work for many apps, eg its not very easy to install a cli.

badwolf • Jan 1, 2021 • View on HN

does the developer not let you download the app outside of the Mac App Store?