: iOS requires all applications to be signed with an Apple-approved digital certificate. If you converted a ZIP containing raw compiled code, you must sign the IPA file using a tool like Xcode, AltStore, Sideloadly, or an enterprise signing service before it will install on a retail device.

A: No. While the file format is the same, an IPA requires a very specific internal folder structure and a valid Apple code signature. Simply renaming a random ZIP will result in an invalid file that iOS will refuse to install.