Testing IOS apps on ios devices made using IONIC a

Question

I am making an app made using IONIC which I just want to test on my IOS device, not publish it to the app store. Do I still need an Apple developer account ( by paying $99 ) or is MAC with XCODE and IONIC installed enough?

I just want to test it on my device, not publish it to the app store.

Answer 1

Yes it is possible.

I tried this today. Using XCODE 7 beta 2. Tested my project made using IONIC with only APPLIE ID, NOT APPLE DEVELOPER ACCOUNT, and its working.

All you have to do is( for making IONIC projects and installing them on Physical devices without APPLE DEVELOPER ID)

1. Install XCODE version 7 (currently beta 2)
2. Install Node JS (update path)
3. Install Cordova
4. make an ionic project ( IONIC start yourproject blank)

IOS platform is added by default.

5. go to platforms/ios folder
6. there will be a yourproject.xcode file - open it
7. Connect your device to the MAC
8. Run your project - if you get any error, XCODE gives the option of fix issue, click on that and your app will be installed on the physical device

Answer 2

Yes, I can confirm this, as I had to do it myself too. You have to buy an Apple developer license in order to test the app on your phone. I know this sounds crazy as you're not actually putting it to the store, just 'testing', but hey that's Apple ;).

However, if you would only like to run it in an Xcode emulator, you don't have to.

edit: Here is the official document confirming this: https://developer.apple.com/legacy/library/technotes/tn2250/_index.html#//apple_ref/doc/uid/DTS40009933-CH1-CODE_SIGNING_IN_A_NUTSHELL-IPHONE_CERTIFICATES

And besides, here's a SO question asking a similar thing and the reply is the same.