iOS Distribution Modes
Learn how to deploy an iOS application to iOS devices. These options require an Apple Developer account (and an Apple Developer Enterprise Program for in-house deployment).
Publish on the Apple App Store
The App Store is the official platform for downloading iOS apps. It is accessible from any iOS device, making it the best way to promote your app to a large audience.
👍️ Your application is available to all users of the App Store and is easily downloadable.
👎️ Your application must comply with the App Store Review Guidelines, particularly in terms of content and functionality.
To learn more, see Publish on the Apple App Store.
Distribute an in-house app via the Apple Developer Enterprise Program
The Apple Developer Enterprise Program enables large enterprises to deliver an iOS application to employees for internal use. The application is deployed on a secure server or via an MDM (Mobile Device Management) solution.
👍️ A simple and secure deployment solution for large companies and internal uses.
👎️ The company must
meet the eligibility criteria (including having more than 100 employees) and have an Apple Developer Enterprise Program ($299/year). Without a MDM solution, the user must manually approve the installation of the application on their device.
Deploy an Ad Hoc app
This distribution method is proposed by Apple to limit the distribution of the application to a fleet of registered iOS devices. Your application must be signed by an ad hoc iOS provisioning profile and the devices must be registered in the Devices section of your Apple Developer space.
👍️ The installation procedure is relatively simple.
👎️ Devices must be registered beforehand.
Deploy custom app for business
This new deployment solution is aimed at companies who wish to deploy their business iOS apps outside the App Store for customers, partners or employees. It requires the implementation of
Apple Business Manager, an MDM solution proposed by Apple.
👍️ A solution designed for the business challenges of companies
👎️ Requires the implementation of Apple Business Manager.
Deploy an unlisted app via the App Store
This new deployment method is intended for apps with a limited audience, such as part-time staff members, franchises, partners, subsidiaries, college students, or all participants of a conference (these examples are provided by Apple). To do this, you must have a standard Apple developer account and submit your application to the App Store. Apple's teams will conduct verification and validation processes.
👍️ A new simple way to distribute an app to a restricted audience!
👎️ Your application must go through the standard App Store submission process and be validated by the review teams.
Learn more, see Deploy an unlisted app on the App Store
Deploy via a private iOS hub
This solution is proposed by PandaSuite, only for apps created with our no code platform. It allows you to distribute your iOS app via a hub (PandaHub or Sales Hub) available on the App Store. Only users who have the access link can download this content. You can also create a personalized hub.
👍️ No need to have an Apple Developer account, no installation procedure.
- Your app is only available within a hub.