Sideloaded apps vs private Gallery App Manager

[adiroiban]

Hi,

So far I have found the followings differences between the Sideloaded apps and apps from the Gallery Manager

Sideloaded Apps

* Pros: You can see companion side logs

* Pros: Easy to install on your own device during development

* Cons: Not easy to access the settings page... "Sideloaded apps" keeps loading and not showing the app in "Developer menu".

* Cons: Not easy to share with other non-technical users (beta testers)

Private Gallery App

* Pros: Easy to install to other users (just send the private link)

* Cons: No companion logs

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Are there other changes?

Are there any drawbacks if I am using the sideloaded app daily ... like in production?

Thanks!

[JonFitbit]

The gallery (public or private) is only required if you want to install the app on devices other than your own.

[adiroiban]

Thanks!

I understand that the App Gallery is for when I want the app installed on other devices, but 

are there any drawbacks if I am using the sideloaded app daily ... like in production?

So once an app is sideloaded is behaves exactly like a normal app?

That is, the companion is loaded under the same circumstances and communication between the device and the companion is done using the same methods?

What I have observed is that loading the sideloaded app is a pain.  I keep getting "Failed to retrieve apps"... even after starting and stopping the Fitbit app on the phone... while for the normal apps I can access the settings from the usual place.