What are the *real* requirements for iOS development

Question

As far as I can see, the requirements to develop for any iOS device are: 1. Own a Mac computer that runs the latest version operating system. 2. Register with Apple to be an iOS developer for $99.00 + tax, annually. 3. Own an iOS device that runs the latest iOS operating system your application will support. For a professional iOS developer, that means the latest operating system out.

Am I wrong? If so, where? I've just bought a brand new iMac and I'm looking for a used iPhone. I want to make sure I buy one that will allow me to develop iOS in the latest version.

Answer 1

Yes, I worked at a company doing iOS development and I had to do those three things (They handled the registration), and nothing more. You don't need a physical phone either though, XCode comes with a pretty good simulator. When working I almost always used the simulator, occasionally pulling the real device for touch/UI testing. It's still important to check functionality in real life if you have a nontrivial UI, since it's hard to know how the UI "feels".

Answer 2

1. You need the latest version of Xcode (requirements for Xcode 10 can be found in this post). Having a relatively up to date Mac usually does the trick.

2. You need an Apple Developer account - $99 / year for personal account or $299 / year for enterprise account.

3. You do not technically need any iOS devices to do iOS development and releases; however, the simulator does not have all the functionality a real device has. So depending on your features, it may be required. Also, some bugs only show up on certain devices, so it's always good to test on as many real world devices as possible. For more details on the capabilities of the iOS Simulator, check here .