Testing iOS Apps on Windows Computers: A Mobile Developer's Guide
As a cross-platform mobile app developer, I know firsthand how cumbersome it can be to test iOS apps using a Windows or Linux computer. The need to find a Mac for testing and building can be a major roadblock in the development process.
In this article, I’ll share how you can use Appetize to run and test mobile apps in your browser, regardless of your operating system. I’ll also discuss how you can integrate Appetize with your CI/CD pipeline to streamline your workflow. Let’s dive in!
What is Appetize?
Appetize is a cloud-based service that allows developers to run and test mobile apps directly in their browsers. This is particularly useful for those of us who develop iOS apps but don’t have a Mac on hand. Appetize supports both iOS and Android devices, making it a convenient tool for testing cross-platform apps.
To begin using Appetize, just Upload your mobile app with a free account. After logging in, you’ll be directed to a dashboard where you can upload your app. To upload an iOS app, you’ll need a .app file, which you can get by building your app in React Native, Flutter, Xamarin, Ionic, Nativescript or Kotlin Multiplatform.
Once you have located your .app file, Appetize requires it to be in a compressed zip or tar.gz file. Once you have compressed your file, navigate to their upload page and select your compressed file. Appetize will then generate a unique link for your app, allowing you to run it in your browser and share it with others.
Testing iOS Apps on a Windows or Linux device
Appetize provides a virtual iOS device interface, enabling you to interact with your app as if it were running on an actual device. You can test various features, check for bugs, and ensure your app is functioning properly.
Preview Native Mobile Apps with your CI/CD Pipeline
One of the advantages of Appetize is its compatibility with CI/CD pipelines. By integrating Appetize with your pipeline, you can automate your app testing process and ensure thorough testing before deployment. Whether you are using Bitrise, Gitlab or Github Actions, Appetize works with any of your preferred solutions.
To integrate Appetize with your CI/CD pipeline, you’ll need to make use of their API or use one of the pre-existing 3rd party integrations. The API allows you to upload new builds of your app, update existing builds, and manage your app instances. Detailed documentation on using the API can be found on the Appetize API Overview.
Minimize bugs in your mobile user experience
You can share the unique link to your app with team members, enabling them to test the app and provide feedback. This helps ensure everyone is on the same page and that your app is ready for deployment.
Incorporating automated UI testing into your development process is crucial for ensuring a seamless user experience and eliminating potential bugs. Appetize now offers AppRecorder, which allows you to create automated mobile UI tests with a simple click and point interface and limited coding.
With AppRecorder you can catch issues early in the development process, reducing the time and effort required for manual testing and making sure your users don’t face any issues.
Preview, Inspect, Test & Automate
Appetize is a valuable tool for cross-platform mobile app developers, especially those who work with iOS apps on Windows or Linux machines. With its browser-based testing, CI/CD pipeline integration, and collaboration features, Appetize simplifies the testing process and streamlines your workflow. No longer will you need to search for a Mac to test your iOS apps – with Appetize, you have everything you need to test your apps right in your browser. Happy testing!
