Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8 Over the air installation of apps

Question

Is there a way to install signed applications over the air on the windows 8 and windows phone 8 platforms?

I'm looking for something similar to iOS wireless app distribution with its itms-services:// uri scheme. Basically, I want to direct users to a web page where they can download and install a signed application package on their device by clicking a link.

But it seems (from the information I gathered from the available documentation) that Microsoft allow app installation only by using the Windows Store, or by Sideloading (in the case of Windows RT, 8 Pro and 8 Entreprise) or by enrolling users phones for company app distribution (in the case of Windows Phone 8).

are these really the only methods available?

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

For the Phone you could use the beta testing feature. It will not show in the store and only be available for users you have registered via their Microsoft account formerly Live ID. The app will run through certification and therefore will not be hosted on your own server.

For Windows 8.x you will still have to go the side loading route as there is currently no beta testing feature available.

HTH