How To Use iOS On A Mac
Both iOS mobile devices and Macs are seen as very secure platforms. While this is fantastic for users worried about safety, this may prove a slight hindrance to tinkerers and testers. This is particularly true in the fact that iOS apps are not normally playable on Mac desktops or laptops due to security settings. Here, we will show you how to play iPhone and iPad apps that don't have equivalent builds on a Mac, in a simple guide.
- Using Mac Device Using Apple Configurator 2. First, install Apple Configurator 2 from App Store and launch the application. Connect your iOS device to the mac through USB. On the device screen, you will be asked if you trust the computer. By default, all the connected devices will appear on the home screen.
- Instead, you can use a long-standing Mac app called iMazing to directly download legitimately purchased IPA files to your Mac. Simply double click them and they install into your applications.
Connect your iPhone or iPad to the Mac via a Lightning cable Download Apple Configurator 2 from the Mac App Store, or Get a third-party app such as iMazing Backup your iOS device to your Mac. Apple advises that it's easiest to open Simulator directly from your Xcode project. You need to select an iOS emulator (specifying a device model) from the Xcode scheme pop-up menu, and click Run.
Background
Now before we get started, let's take a look at (besides security) why having iOS apps on a Mac is such a hassle. Our main obstacle is that we are transferring a mobile operating system onto a decidedly larger platform. While this is certainly possible, it does have some minor clauses we have to address. The first is that we cannot make the OS native, meaning we can't have a Mac that only runs iOS. This is primarily due to internal performance constraints on part of the iOS system, as well as the need for virtualization of ARM processors, using the built in x86 processors. While one would think it should be easier for arguably larger processors to do the work of the smaller ARMs, due to format difference it's much like using a pressure washer to fill a glass full of water. Between the output and way the water would come out, it would not be terribly well suited for the task, even though both a faucet and power washer dispense the same substance. Instead, we need a special 'nozzle' to make our task possible. So, what we need is to create a virtual device to copy what the iOS operating system would see as an iPhone, and have it run on our Macs.
Some Uses Of iOS On a Mac
There's a possibility you may have found this article and wondered to what end you might use this information, and if there is any real use for having the ability to run apps on your Mac. Let's quickly run down three reasons why this may be a good idea.
Reason #1: Expense
If you own a newer Mac, expense may not be the largest concern to you. However, there is something to be said for trying before you buy, and if you already have a Windows or Android device, you may want to check the inner workings of an iPhone or iPad before purchasing. This will allow you to get used to the interface and app performance for free, and without any sales pitches attached.
Reason #2: Development
As anyone who has ever coded anything could tell you, testing is extremely important and should be done nearly every chance you can get. Unfortunately there is an inherent risk in testing your own apps, especially if you are playing with a $500 phone that could be bricked with a few lines of poorly written code. In this case, since you are running a virtual machine, if something goes haywire one can simple close out the program and start with a clean slate upon next boot up.
Reason #3: Security Concerns
Somewhat tied to the previous reason, this can be important for keeping your iOS device working if you happen to have one. Despite the incredible efforts of the Apple App Store to curate and ensure only legitimate apps make it onto their market place, an occasional slip up may occur, and this acts as a net for those if you wish to go app exploring. While you will still be able to run essentially any app, you can test it before letting it access any permissions on your actual device, and thus prevent any unwanted leaking of information.
How to run iOS on your Mac
As mentioned before, we need to run a virtualization of the iOS system in order to have it on a Mac. This means, our best option is to choose an simulator program which can do just that. Now we'll explore a few options and see how to get them running on your Mac.
Program Option #1: iPadian
iPadian is one of the best simulators in terms of translating the GUI of iOS into a desktop program, with a caveat. Instead of being able to use the whole of the Apple App Store, you are limited to the iPadian App Store which is significantly smaller in scope. For this reason, iPadian is perhaps best suited for those wanting to test out how the iPhone and iPad systems feel to them, as opposed to development or security testing.
To start installation, first download and install Adobe Air here. Next, go here and download iPadian 3.0. Next, all you need to do is unzip the file and open the .exe file. From there on out, follow the prompts as needed and in a few moments you'll have a functioning simulator for your Mac.
Program Option #2: Air Phone iOS Emulator
Similar to the previous option, Adobe Air must be installed to run Air Phone iOS, which itself is suprisingly robust in its functionality. While there have been reports of issues in terms of placeholder='Email:' type='text' value=' size='30'>
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Beta versions of iOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS are available to members of the Apple Developer Program. Members can develop apps that take advantage of the latest features of Apple platforms and test existing apps for compatibility.
Overview
Beta software, including previews and seeds, refers to a version of software that's still under development and not yet released to the public. This software is intended only for installation on development devices registered under your Apple Developer Program membership. Registered development devices can be upgraded to future beta releases and the public version of the software. Attempting to install beta software in an unauthorized manner violates Apple policy and could render your device unusable and necessitate an out-of-warranty repair. Make sure to back up your devices before installing beta software and install only on devices and systems that you're prepared to erase if necessary.
iOS Beta Software
Installation Using the Configuration Profile
- Download the configuration profile from the download page.
On your iOS device: Download the configuration profile directly onto your iOS device and follow the installation instructions.
On your Mac or PC: Save the file to your hard disk and email it to an account on your iPhone. Tap the configuration profile in Mail and follow the installation instructions.
- Connect your device to a power cord and connect to Wi-Fi.
- Tap Settings > General > Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install.
- To update now, tap Install. Or tap Later and choose Install Tonight or Remind Me Later. If you tap Install Tonight, connect your device to a power cord at night and your device will update automatically by morning.
- If prompted, enter your passcode.
Installation Using the Restore Image
- Download the iOS beta software restore image for your device from the download page.
- Open the Finder on your Mac.
- Connect your iOS device to your computer with the cable that came with your device.
- If you're prompted for your device passcode or to Trust This Computer, follow the onscreen steps. If you forget your passcode, help is available.
- Select your iOS device when it appears in the Finder sidebar.
- In the Summary panel, hold the Option key and click the Check for Update button.
- Select the iOS beta software restore image and click Open to start the installation.
- After installing the beta, your device will reboot and will require a network connection to complete activation.
macOS Beta Software
The macOS Developer Beta Access Utility requires macOS 10.8 or later.
- Download the macOS Developer Beta Access Utility from the download page.
- Open the macOS Developer Beta Access Utility and follow the instructions.
- Once installation is complete, you'll be presented with the macOS beta in the Mac App Store. Click the Download button to install the beta.
- When a new macOS beta becomes available, you'll receive a notification. You can install the beta in the Software Update section of System Preferences.
How To Use Ios App On Mac
tvOS Beta Software
tvOS 14 beta supports Apple TV 4K and Apple TV (4th generation) only.
Installation Using the Configuration Profile
- Download the tvOS beta software configuration profile for the Apple TV 4K from the download page on your Mac.
- Make sure you're running the latest version of Xcode 12 or later on your Mac as well as macOS 10.13.4 or later.
- Check that your Apple TV is plugged in and turned on.
- Connect your Apple TV and Mac to the same network.
- In Xcode, choose Window > Devices and Simulators, then in the window that appears, click Devices.
- On Apple TV, open Settings, then choose Remotes and Devices > Remote App and Devices. Apple TV searches for possible pairing devices.
- In Xcode, select your Apple TV in the left column under Discovered. The status of the Apple TV connection request appears in the detail area.
- Enter the verification code displayed on Apple TV and click Connect. Xcode pairs with Apple TV and a network icon appears next to your Apple TV in the left column.
- Make sure your Mac is running the latest version of Apple Configurator.
- Open Apple Configurator.
- To set up an Apple TV for the first time, click Prepare and follow the onscreen instructions. To add profiles for an Apple TV that you've previously set up, click Add, then select Profiles. You can also drag a profile from the Finder and drop it on the icon of your Apple TV.
Installation Using the Restore Image for Apple TV (4th generation) Only
- Download the tvOS beta software restore image for Apple TV (4th generation) from the download page on your Mac.
- Open the Finder.
- Connect your Apple TV (4th generation) to your Mac with a USB-C cable.
- Select your Apple TV when it appears in the Finder.
- In the Summary panel, hold the Option key and click the Restore Apple TV button.
- Select the tvOS beta software restore image and click Open to start installation.
- After installing the beta, your device will reboot and will require a network connection to complete activation.
- NOTE: If the Finder does not recognize your Apple TV, place Apple TV in recovery mode:
- Make sure Apple TV is connected to your Mac.
- Using the included remote, press and hold MENU + Play/Pause for 6 seconds until the indicator light flashes rapidly.
- Proceed with step 6 to restore Apple TV.
Installation Using the Restore Image for Apple TV (3rd generation) Only
- Identify your Apple TV model. You can find it in Settings > General > About.
- Download the corresponding Apple TV beta software restore image from the download page to your computer.
- Open the Finder.
- Connect your Apple TV to your computer with a micro USB cable. Ensure your Apple TV is also plugged into a power source. NOTE: An HDMI connection is not required for the install process.
- Select your Apple TV when it appears in the Finder.
- In the Summary panel, hold the Option key and click the Restore Apple TV button.
- Select the Apple TV beta software restore image and click Open to start installation. While your Apple TV is restoring, don't unplug anything. The time it takes to restore your Apple TV depends on the speed of your internet connection.
- When your Apple TV has finished restoring, disconnect the micro USB connection from your computer, then disconnect and reconnect the power cord to restart your Apple TV.
watchOS Beta Software
watchOS 7 beta requires Apple WatchSeries 3 or later and iPhone 6s or later running iOS 14 beta. Ccleaner alternative mac.
- To update the software on Apple Watch, you'll need to:
- Make sure your Apple Watch has at least a 50 percent charge.
- Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi.
- Keep your iPhone next to your Apple Watch to make sure they're in range.
- Make sure your iPhone is running iOS 14 beta.
- Download the configuration profile from the download page.
On your iPhone: Download the configuration profile directly onto your iPhone and follow the installation instructions.
On your Mac or PC: Save the file to your hard disk and email it to an account on your iPhone. Tap the configuration profile in Mail and follow the installation instructions.
- After launching the profile, tap Apple Watch as the installation location and reboot when prompted.
- On your iPhone, open the Apple Watch app and tap My Watch > General > Software Update.
- If prompted for your iPhone passcode or Apple Watch passcode, enter the passcode.
- Wait for the Apple logo and progress bar to appear. When the update is done, your Apple Watch will restart.
Support for Apple Watch
If your Apple Watch displays a red '!' icon, force restart your Apple Watch. Simultaneously press and hold the side button and Digital Crown for at least 10 seconds, then release when you see the Apple logo.
If force restarting your Apple Watch doesn't resolve the issue, or if your Apple Watch restarts in recovery mode or exhibits other issues that require it to be restored with the current version of watchOS, you may need to send it in to Apple to be serviced. Apple Authorized Service Providers and Apple retail stores cannot perform this service. Once your device is received, it may take up to three business days to be serviced. You will get back the same device you sent in. This service is currently available in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Ios For Mac Pro
To get started, contact us.
Providing Feedback
Feedback Assistant
If you encounter any problems with beta software or if you would like to request enhancements to frameworks or API, please submit a report through Feedback Assistant. Make sure to include the build number in the bug title and description so your issue can be processed quickly.
Download Ios Apps On Mac
Apple Beta Software Program
The iOS and macOS public betas available through the Apple Beta Software Program come with the built-in Feedback Assistant app. If you're running the tvOS public beta, you can submit feedback through the Feedback Assistant app on an enrolled iOS device. When you experience an issue or something does not work as expected, send your feedback directly to Apple with Feedback Assistant.
Apple Developer Forums
If you own a newer Mac, expense may not be the largest concern to you. However, there is something to be said for trying before you buy, and if you already have a Windows or Android device, you may want to check the inner workings of an iPhone or iPad before purchasing. This will allow you to get used to the interface and app performance for free, and without any sales pitches attached.
Reason #2: Development
As anyone who has ever coded anything could tell you, testing is extremely important and should be done nearly every chance you can get. Unfortunately there is an inherent risk in testing your own apps, especially if you are playing with a $500 phone that could be bricked with a few lines of poorly written code. In this case, since you are running a virtual machine, if something goes haywire one can simple close out the program and start with a clean slate upon next boot up.
Reason #3: Security Concerns
Somewhat tied to the previous reason, this can be important for keeping your iOS device working if you happen to have one. Despite the incredible efforts of the Apple App Store to curate and ensure only legitimate apps make it onto their market place, an occasional slip up may occur, and this acts as a net for those if you wish to go app exploring. While you will still be able to run essentially any app, you can test it before letting it access any permissions on your actual device, and thus prevent any unwanted leaking of information.
How to run iOS on your Mac
As mentioned before, we need to run a virtualization of the iOS system in order to have it on a Mac. This means, our best option is to choose an simulator program which can do just that. Now we'll explore a few options and see how to get them running on your Mac.
Program Option #1: iPadian
iPadian is one of the best simulators in terms of translating the GUI of iOS into a desktop program, with a caveat. Instead of being able to use the whole of the Apple App Store, you are limited to the iPadian App Store which is significantly smaller in scope. For this reason, iPadian is perhaps best suited for those wanting to test out how the iPhone and iPad systems feel to them, as opposed to development or security testing.
To start installation, first download and install Adobe Air here. Next, go here and download iPadian 3.0. Next, all you need to do is unzip the file and open the .exe file. From there on out, follow the prompts as needed and in a few moments you'll have a functioning simulator for your Mac.
Program Option #2: Air Phone iOS Emulator
Similar to the previous option, Adobe Air must be installed to run Air Phone iOS, which itself is suprisingly robust in its functionality. While there have been reports of issues in terms of placeholder='Email:' type='text' value=' size='30'>
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Beta versions of iOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS are available to members of the Apple Developer Program. Members can develop apps that take advantage of the latest features of Apple platforms and test existing apps for compatibility.
Overview
Beta software, including previews and seeds, refers to a version of software that's still under development and not yet released to the public. This software is intended only for installation on development devices registered under your Apple Developer Program membership. Registered development devices can be upgraded to future beta releases and the public version of the software. Attempting to install beta software in an unauthorized manner violates Apple policy and could render your device unusable and necessitate an out-of-warranty repair. Make sure to back up your devices before installing beta software and install only on devices and systems that you're prepared to erase if necessary.
iOS Beta Software
Installation Using the Configuration Profile
- Download the configuration profile from the download page.
On your iOS device: Download the configuration profile directly onto your iOS device and follow the installation instructions.
On your Mac or PC: Save the file to your hard disk and email it to an account on your iPhone. Tap the configuration profile in Mail and follow the installation instructions.
- Connect your device to a power cord and connect to Wi-Fi.
- Tap Settings > General > Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install.
- To update now, tap Install. Or tap Later and choose Install Tonight or Remind Me Later. If you tap Install Tonight, connect your device to a power cord at night and your device will update automatically by morning.
- If prompted, enter your passcode.
Installation Using the Restore Image
- Download the iOS beta software restore image for your device from the download page.
- Open the Finder on your Mac.
- Connect your iOS device to your computer with the cable that came with your device.
- If you're prompted for your device passcode or to Trust This Computer, follow the onscreen steps. If you forget your passcode, help is available.
- Select your iOS device when it appears in the Finder sidebar.
- In the Summary panel, hold the Option key and click the Check for Update button.
- Select the iOS beta software restore image and click Open to start the installation.
- After installing the beta, your device will reboot and will require a network connection to complete activation.
macOS Beta Software
The macOS Developer Beta Access Utility requires macOS 10.8 or later.
- Download the macOS Developer Beta Access Utility from the download page.
- Open the macOS Developer Beta Access Utility and follow the instructions.
- Once installation is complete, you'll be presented with the macOS beta in the Mac App Store. Click the Download button to install the beta.
- When a new macOS beta becomes available, you'll receive a notification. You can install the beta in the Software Update section of System Preferences.
How To Use Ios App On Mac
tvOS Beta Software
tvOS 14 beta supports Apple TV 4K and Apple TV (4th generation) only.
Installation Using the Configuration Profile
- Download the tvOS beta software configuration profile for the Apple TV 4K from the download page on your Mac.
- Make sure you're running the latest version of Xcode 12 or later on your Mac as well as macOS 10.13.4 or later.
- Check that your Apple TV is plugged in and turned on.
- Connect your Apple TV and Mac to the same network.
- In Xcode, choose Window > Devices and Simulators, then in the window that appears, click Devices.
- On Apple TV, open Settings, then choose Remotes and Devices > Remote App and Devices. Apple TV searches for possible pairing devices.
- In Xcode, select your Apple TV in the left column under Discovered. The status of the Apple TV connection request appears in the detail area.
- Enter the verification code displayed on Apple TV and click Connect. Xcode pairs with Apple TV and a network icon appears next to your Apple TV in the left column.
- Make sure your Mac is running the latest version of Apple Configurator.
- Open Apple Configurator.
- To set up an Apple TV for the first time, click Prepare and follow the onscreen instructions. To add profiles for an Apple TV that you've previously set up, click Add, then select Profiles. You can also drag a profile from the Finder and drop it on the icon of your Apple TV.
Installation Using the Restore Image for Apple TV (4th generation) Only
- Download the tvOS beta software restore image for Apple TV (4th generation) from the download page on your Mac.
- Open the Finder.
- Connect your Apple TV (4th generation) to your Mac with a USB-C cable.
- Select your Apple TV when it appears in the Finder.
- In the Summary panel, hold the Option key and click the Restore Apple TV button.
- Select the tvOS beta software restore image and click Open to start installation.
- After installing the beta, your device will reboot and will require a network connection to complete activation.
- NOTE: If the Finder does not recognize your Apple TV, place Apple TV in recovery mode:
- Make sure Apple TV is connected to your Mac.
- Using the included remote, press and hold MENU + Play/Pause for 6 seconds until the indicator light flashes rapidly.
- Proceed with step 6 to restore Apple TV.
Installation Using the Restore Image for Apple TV (3rd generation) Only
- Identify your Apple TV model. You can find it in Settings > General > About.
- Download the corresponding Apple TV beta software restore image from the download page to your computer.
- Open the Finder.
- Connect your Apple TV to your computer with a micro USB cable. Ensure your Apple TV is also plugged into a power source. NOTE: An HDMI connection is not required for the install process.
- Select your Apple TV when it appears in the Finder.
- In the Summary panel, hold the Option key and click the Restore Apple TV button.
- Select the Apple TV beta software restore image and click Open to start installation. While your Apple TV is restoring, don't unplug anything. The time it takes to restore your Apple TV depends on the speed of your internet connection.
- When your Apple TV has finished restoring, disconnect the micro USB connection from your computer, then disconnect and reconnect the power cord to restart your Apple TV.
watchOS Beta Software
watchOS 7 beta requires Apple WatchSeries 3 or later and iPhone 6s or later running iOS 14 beta. Ccleaner alternative mac.
- To update the software on Apple Watch, you'll need to:
- Make sure your Apple Watch has at least a 50 percent charge.
- Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi.
- Keep your iPhone next to your Apple Watch to make sure they're in range.
- Make sure your iPhone is running iOS 14 beta.
- Download the configuration profile from the download page.
On your iPhone: Download the configuration profile directly onto your iPhone and follow the installation instructions.
On your Mac or PC: Save the file to your hard disk and email it to an account on your iPhone. Tap the configuration profile in Mail and follow the installation instructions.
- After launching the profile, tap Apple Watch as the installation location and reboot when prompted.
- On your iPhone, open the Apple Watch app and tap My Watch > General > Software Update.
- If prompted for your iPhone passcode or Apple Watch passcode, enter the passcode.
- Wait for the Apple logo and progress bar to appear. When the update is done, your Apple Watch will restart.
Support for Apple Watch
If your Apple Watch displays a red '!' icon, force restart your Apple Watch. Simultaneously press and hold the side button and Digital Crown for at least 10 seconds, then release when you see the Apple logo.
If force restarting your Apple Watch doesn't resolve the issue, or if your Apple Watch restarts in recovery mode or exhibits other issues that require it to be restored with the current version of watchOS, you may need to send it in to Apple to be serviced. Apple Authorized Service Providers and Apple retail stores cannot perform this service. Once your device is received, it may take up to three business days to be serviced. You will get back the same device you sent in. This service is currently available in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Ios For Mac Pro
To get started, contact us.
Providing Feedback
Feedback Assistant
If you encounter any problems with beta software or if you would like to request enhancements to frameworks or API, please submit a report through Feedback Assistant. Make sure to include the build number in the bug title and description so your issue can be processed quickly.
Download Ios Apps On Mac
Apple Beta Software Program
The iOS and macOS public betas available through the Apple Beta Software Program come with the built-in Feedback Assistant app. If you're running the tvOS public beta, you can submit feedback through the Feedback Assistant app on an enrolled iOS device. When you experience an issue or something does not work as expected, send your feedback directly to Apple with Feedback Assistant.
Apple Developer Forums
You can visit the forums to find information or post about issues you encounter during app development.