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TestFlight for iOS App Testing

TestFlight is an online service provided by Apple Inc. that facilitates the over-the-air installation and testing of mobile applications. It is an essential tool for developers within the iOS Developer Program to distribute pre-release versions of their apps to both internal and external beta testers. This service allows developers to gather valuable feedback, identify bugs, and refine their apps before releasing them to the public via the App Store.

History

TestFlight was founded by Benjamin Satterfield and Trystan Kosmynka on December 23, 2010. Initially, it supported both Android and iOS applications. However, after its acquisition by Burstly in March 2012, and subsequently by Apple in 2014, support for Android was retracted. Since 2015, applications must be published for TestFlight using Xcode, and testers must be invited through iTunes Connect.

Key Features

Beta Testing

TestFlight enables developers to distribute beta versions of their iOS apps to a selected group of testers. This allows testers to explore new features, provide feedback, and report any issues they encounter. TestFlight supports apps for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, watchOS, and iMessage.

Feedback Collection

Testers can send feedback directly from the app by taking a screenshot or providing additional context about an app crash immediately after it occurs. Developers can view this feedback on their app’s TestFlight page in App Store Connect.

Automatic Updates

TestFlight ensures that testers always have the latest available build by supporting automatic updates. Up to 100 apps can be tested at a time, and multiple builds can be tested simultaneously.

In-App Purchases

During beta testing, in-app purchases are free, and any purchases made during testing will not carry over to the App Store versions.

How to Use TestFlight

Setting Up
  1. Install TestFlight: Testers need to install the TestFlight app from the App Store on their iOS device.
  2. Accept Invitation: Testers must accept an email or public link invitation from the developer.
  3. Install Beta App: Once invited, testers can install the beta app and start testing.

Uploading Builds
  1. Archive App in Xcode: Developers need to archive their app in Xcode.
  2. Export Build: Select the archived build and export it for iOS App Store Deployment.
  3. Upload to TestFlight: Log in to TestFlight, select the app, and upload the build.

Inviting Testers

Developers can invite testers through email or a public link. Internal testers are usually team members, while external testers can be anyone from the public. External testing requires a limited review by Apple before the app can be distributed.

Benefits
  • Streamlined Testing: TestFlight simplifies the process of distributing beta versions and collecting feedback.
  • Improved Quality: By identifying and fixing issues before public release, developers can enhance the quality and stability of their apps.
  • User Experience: Gathering feedback from real users helps in refining the app’s user experience.

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