Ad-Hoc distribution for iOS app

Question

I am trying to release an invite-only iOS App. I don't particularly want this app on the App Store, and using TestFlight causes a lot of problems (having to constantly update binaries, limited users... Apple IDs).

At the same time I'd rather not have to resort to a third party distribution to get this kind of an alert .

Is it possible to release a secret invite-only App on the App Store?

Answer 1

Consider enrolling for an Apple Developer Enterprise Program This will cost more but then you can distribute using your server . You can use MDM also no need to upload or use test flight.

Answer 2

I am not sure the last time you used Test Flight, but it has changed a lot in the last year. There can still be headaches with it, but since it was bought by Apple you now distribute your App through iTunes Connect which is the same way you would do it for releasing in the App store. You have a number of beta testers (up to 1000) that all you need is their email address. You can also have internal testers (up to 25 I think) which will get every build you upload automatically (however they do have some access to the information about your app through their iTunes accounts).

So in summary it takes the same amount of work and the same process to have beta testers that it does to release it through the App Store except that you don't have to wait the 5+ days for the App review. Do note that the beta version will expire after 30 days at which point you just need to upload a new one.

Answer 3

You cannot release a secret App on the App Store, as it violated Apple's App Store Review Guidelines

2.22 Apps that arbitrarily restrict which users may use the App, such as by location or carrier, may be rejected