Downloading “mobileconfig” file from an App

Question

My org is creating an app, that will have certain wifi hotspots listed in a mobile config file, so that the user does not have to write the password for these wifi when he is in range. I know this can be done using .mobileconfig file. But I have serious doubts.

Here are few questions regarding the app:

1. Can .mobileconfig file be created programatically. I cannot find a link to how to cretae this programatically (not using iPCU).

2. Will Apple allow an app that creates .mobileconfig file and asks the user to download it and install it, so as to change the wifi settings?

3. Is making the user download this .mobileconfig file only possible via Safari or Mail? Is there any way that this file be opened directly from the app to the settings screen?

Thanks in advance. :)

Answer 1

1) Yes it can. It can be created as an XML file. In fact, you can open and edit an unsigned .mobileconfig file in a text editor and edit the fields. Keep in mind that if it's signed then any edits to the file will require you to re-sign it.

2) Apple will allow an app that downloads and installs a .mobileconfig via Safari, I've seen one on the App Store that does this.

3) Safari + Mail are the only ways to open them(on iOS).