Installing Third Party Apps for iOS

On iOS, apps outside the App Store can only be installed through routes Apple allows. For testing, the main ones are TestFlight, an over the air link to a build signed Ad Hoc, Enterprise or Development, or a cable install from a Mac. Jailbreaking is not needed and not recommended for app testing.

This guide explains each route, what it requires, and how testers install a build shared through AppForShare.

Why iOS is stricter than Android

Every app on an iPhone must carry a valid signature from Apple's signing system. Unlike Android, there is no setting that lets you install any file you download. A build installs only if its signature and provisioning profile allow it on that device. This protects users, and it means developers have to plan how they distribute test builds.

Ways to install apps outside the App Store

1. TestFlight

TestFlight is Apple's own beta testing app. The developer uploads the build to App Store Connect and invites testers, who install the TestFlight app and then the beta. Builds for external testers go through Apple's beta review first. TestFlight builds cannot be installed from any other link.

2. Ad Hoc builds over the air

An Ad Hoc build runs only on devices whose UDID is registered in the developer's Apple account and included in the provisioning profile. The developer collects each tester's UDID, signs the build, and shares an install link. This works well for small groups, clients and QA teams, without App Store Connect or review.

3. Enterprise builds

Organizations in the Apple Developer Enterprise Program can sign apps for internal use by their own employees, without registering devices. After installing, the user must trust the developer under Settings, General, VPN and Device Management before the app opens. Enterprise distribution is not allowed for apps meant for the public.

4. Development builds

Development builds are signed for the development team's registered devices. Like Ad Hoc, they can be shared over the air, but they are mainly used by developers themselves.

5. Installing with a cable

iTunes is gone on current macOS. Developers install builds through Xcode, or with Apple Configurator on a Mac. The build still needs the right signing, so a cable install is no shortcut around the rules. It is mostly useful for developers testing on their own devices.

Developer Mode on iOS 16 and later

Before opening an Ad Hoc or Development build on iOS 16 or later, the tester must turn on Developer Mode under Settings, Privacy and Security, then restart the device. The option appears after a developer build has been installed or the device has been connected to Xcode. Step by step instructions are in How to enable Developer Mode on iPhone.

Installing a build shared through AppForShare

AppForShare hosts iOS builds signed Ad Hoc, Enterprise or Development and gives the developer a link and QR code. It does not sign or re-sign builds, and it cannot install App Store or TestFlight builds. As a tester:

1. If the build is Ad Hoc or Development, send your UDID to the developer first. Use the free UDID finder in Safari. Details are in How to find the UDID of your iPhone.
2. Wait for the developer to add your device and share a build signed after that.
3. Open the link in Safari on your iPhone, or scan the QR code with the Camera app.
4. Check the app name and version on the install page and tap Install. Confirm when iOS asks.
5. Wait for the icon on the home screen to finish installing. For Ad Hoc or Development builds, turn on Developer Mode if asked. For Enterprise builds, trust the developer in Settings.

What about jailbreaking and alternative marketplaces?

Jailbreaking removes iOS security protections. It is not needed for testing your own apps, it can stop updates and some apps from working, and it exposes the device to risk. Do not jailbreak a device to test a build.

In the European Union, iOS 17.4 and later also allow apps from alternative app marketplaces approved by Apple. Those are for distributing finished apps to the public, not for sharing test builds with your team.

If the app does not install

The most common causes are a device that is not in the profile, an App Store signed build, or an expired certificate or profile. See Can't install an app on an iOS device for a full checklist.

Frequently asked questions

Can I install an iOS app that is not on the App Store?

Yes, through routes Apple allows: TestFlight, or an over the air link to a build signed Ad Hoc, Enterprise or Development. Ad Hoc and Development builds only install on registered devices.

Do I need to jailbreak my iPhone to install test builds?

No. Properly signed test builds install on a normal iPhone. Jailbreaking is not needed and not recommended.

Why do I need to send my UDID to the developer?

Ad Hoc and Development builds only run on devices whose UDID is in the provisioning profile. The developer adds your UDID in the Apple Developer portal and signs a new build that includes your device.

Can AppForShare install TestFlight or App Store builds?

No. iOS only allows link installs for builds signed Ad Hoc, Enterprise or Development, and AppForShare does not re-sign builds.