Hi I have designed an app but do not want it to be distributed via the normal channels of app store etc Instead i want customers to download the Totally FREE app from a page on my website - all the app does is just a version of my website but in a app version to use Can i do this ok and do i need the enterprise account from apple ?? And how many people am i allowed, to download the app ? Thanks in advance for any advice. John
Distributing an app not using the app store
Apple expects devs to utilize the app store for distribution and does not provide a scheme that allows you to freely distribute to customers from your website.
An Enterprise Account is for employees and agents of a corporation, not 'customers'.
And note that apps same as websites risk rejection during review, so there is little chance you could even use the store...you may want to just put your efforts into your site.
Is there anyway we can distribute our app to our members via downloading from our website, or is this not possible ?
Nope, not possible.
So its not possible at all ??
Nope, not at all.
You misunderstand how the App Store works and how Apple controls application distribution in their operating system.
If you want to generally distribute an app in iOS, even a free app, then it needs to be reviewed and signed by Apple to run on standard iOS devices. That means it needs to follow their guidelines.
Your energy is best spent either creating a fully functional iOS app, or improving the website appearance and performance on iOS devices.