What about Apple?
Discussion
That's coming too. Rumours is iOS side loading next year.
As a user, if it opens for the general public at some point, how do I known I’m not downloading malicious software? I’m not a coder/developer.
You can verify the signature on the release was made by the developer. Most people that don’t know or want to do this will and probably should stick to downloading apps from the app store. This is already possible on Macs, so it’s not some new thing for Apple in general.
First the EU makes them add USB-C to their iphones and now this?? Tim Apple can’t catch a break 😂