# Shane Gill > developer of AltStore and Delta **Wikidata**: [Q131578816](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q131578816) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/shane-gill-q131578816 # Shane Gill ## Summary Shane Gill is a software engineer and programmer best known as the developer of AltStore and Delta. He is recognized for creating tools that serve the iOS software community, particularly in the areas of app sideloading and emulation. ## Biography - Known for: Developing AltStore and Delta - Field(s): Software engineering, programming - Website: https://shanegillio.github.io/ - Mastodon: @shanegillio@indieweb.social (since November 7, 2022) ## Contributions Shane Gill developed AltStore and Delta, two software projects that have become notable in the iOS ecosystem. AltStore is an alternative app distribution platform for iOS devices. It enables users to install applications outside of Apple's official App Store without requiring a jailbreak. The software works by using a user's Apple ID to sign applications, allowing them to be installed on iOS devices for limited periods before requiring renewal. Delta is a multi-system emulator designed for iOS devices. It allows users to play games from various classic gaming consoles on their iPhones and iPads. Delta supports emulation of multiple platforms including Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Super Nintendo (SNES), Nintendo 64, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, and Nintendo DS. Both projects are distributed through AltStore, making Gill responsible for both the distribution platform and one of its flagship applications. These tools have been particularly significant for users interested in gaming preservation and those seeking software not available through official Apple channels. Gill maintains documentation and information about his work on his personal website and shares updates through his Mastodon account on the indieweb.social instance. ## FAQs ### Q: What is Shane Gill known for? A: Shane Gill is known for developing AltStore, an alternative iOS app store, and Delta, a multi-console emulator for iOS devices. Both projects are widely recognized in the iOS software community. ### Q: What is AltStore? A: AltStore is an alternative app distribution platform for iOS that allows users to install apps outside of Apple's official App Store. It uses the user's Apple ID to sign apps, enabling sideloading on non-jailbroken devices. ### Q: What is Delta? A: Delta is a multi-system emulator for iOS devices developed by Shane Gill. It supports emulation of various classic gaming consoles including Nintendo and Game Boy systems. ### Q: Where can I find Shane Gill online? A: Shane Gill maintains a personal website at https://shanegillio.github.io/ and is active on Mastodon at @shanegillio@indieweb.social. ## Why They Matter Shane Gill's work on AltStore and Delta has had a significant impact on the iOS software ecosystem, particularly for users seeking alternatives to Apple's controlled app distribution model. AltStore addressed a longstanding challenge for iOS users: how to install software not available through the official App Store without jailbreaking their devices. By creating a legitimate method using Apple's own developer signing system, Gill provided a solution that works within Apple's technical constraints while still offering users expanded software choices. This has made AltStore one of the most widely known and used sideloading tools in the iOS community. Delta represents an important contribution to mobile gaming preservation. As one of the most polished and feature-rich emulators available for iOS, it has enabled users to experience classic games on modern devices. The emulator's support for multiple console generations has made it a comprehensive solution for retro gaming enthusiasts. Gill's work has been particularly relevant in ongoing discussions about digital ownership, platform openness, and user choice in mobile computing. As regulatory scrutiny of app store monopolies has increased globally, tools like AltStore have become part of broader conversations about competition and consumer rights in digital marketplaces. For the iOS development and enthusiast community, Gill's contributions have provided practical tools that expand the capabilities of Apple devices beyond what the company officially supports, while maintaining a focus on user experience and accessibility. ## Notable For - Developer of AltStore, a prominent iOS sideloading platform - Creator of Delta, a multi-console emulator for iOS - Contributor to the alternative iOS software ecosystem - Maintainer of widely-used open-source iOS tools ## Body ### Software Development Shane Gill operates as a programmer and software engineer, focusing on iOS application development and distribution tools. ### AltStore AltStore is an alternative app distribution platform for iOS devices developed by Gill. The platform enables users to: - Install apps outside of Apple's App Store - Sideload applications on non-jailbroken iOS devices - Use their own Apple ID for app signing - Refresh installed apps to maintain functionality The software leverages Apple's developer provisioning system, allowing users to install apps signed with their personal Apple IDs. This approach works within Apple's existing security framework while providing expanded software installation options. ### Delta Delta is a multi-system emulator created by Gill for iOS devices. The emulator features: - Support for multiple gaming console platforms - Native iOS user interface design - Integration with AltStore for distribution - Compatibility with various game file formats Supported emulation platforms include: - Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) - Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) - Nintendo 64 - Game Boy - Game Boy Color - Game Boy Advance - Nintendo DS ### Online Presence Gill maintains a personal website at https://shanegillio.github.io/, which serves as a central hub for information about his projects. The site is presented in English. He also maintains a presence on Mastodon at @shanegillio@indieweb.social on the indieweb.social instance, having joined the platform on November 7, 2022.