Xcode IPA Packaging Tutorial

Abstract

This article introduces how to use AppUploader to package iOS apps. It is suitable for beginners who want to quickly understand the iOS beta packaging and distribution process. You can test apps on real devices without paying the $688 Apple Developer fee.

Introduction

When developing iOS apps, certificates are usually required to sign the app in order to generate an IPA file. For developers who only need beta testing and do not plan to publish on the App Store, paying $688 for Apple Developer certification is unnecessary. With AppUploader, you only need a regular Apple account to package and run apps on real devices.

Step One: Register an Apple Developer Account

  1. Visit Apple Developer.
  2. Follow the prompts to register an account; no $688 certification fee is required.

The registration process is simple and guided by the official website.

Step Two: Download AppUploader

  1. Download link: applicationloader.net
  2. For Mac users: Extract the downloaded package and double-click AppUploader to launch the tool.

Tool Interface Overview

AppUploader Main Interface

Core Features

  1. Login Account
    When logging in, check the option for “Unpaid $688”:

    Login Interface

  2. Certificate Management
    Generate .p12 certificates and import them into the Mac system.

  3. Provisioning Profile
    Includes certificates, public key, and device information, bound to the app.

  4. Test Device Registration
    Automatically retrieve iPhone UDID for beta testing.

Other features can be found in the tool’s help documentation, which lists common issues and solutions.

Step Three: Use Xcode to Package the IPA File

1. Import Certificates

  1. Double-click the .p12 file generated by AppUploader.

  2. Enter the password and import the certificate:

    Import Certificate

2. Xcode Configuration and Packaging

  1. Add your Apple developer account in Xcode and ensure you have the personal .p12 certificate:

    Add Account in Xcode

  2. Uncheck Automatically manage signing:

    Disable Automatic Signing
    Select Signing Certificate
    Set Provisioning Profile

  3. After successful compilation, the following interface will appear:

    Build Success
    Build Success
    Build Success

3. Export IPA File

  1. Open the Products directory and copy the xxx.app file.
  2. Create a folder named Payload and paste the .app file inside.
  3. Compress the Payload folder into Payload.zip.
  4. Rename Payload.zip to Payload.ipa.

At this point, the iOS beta installation file is ready and can be distributed to test devices.