iOS App Distribution Options

There are several methods for distributing iOS apps. We can basically group them under two main subject. Private or Public distributions, including the App Store, Enterprise In-House, Ad Hoc, TestFlight, Apple Business Manager, Apple School Manager, and Unlisted App Distribution.

To use these distribution methods, you have to enroll Apple Developer Account. After all you can choose one them that the right fit for your organization. Let’s dig deeper.

The App Store is the primary method for distributing iOS apps to users. Developers can submit their apps to the App Store for review, and once approved, the apps will be available for download to users.

When app developers release their app in the AppStore, any user can download this app if it met criteria. App Developers can restrict some of the countries or device type.

Enterprise In-House apps are intended for use by employees within a single organization. These apps are not available on the App Store, and instead must be distributed directly to employees via a secure website or mobile device management (MDM) solution.

Ad Hoc distribution allows developers to share their apps with a limited number of users for testing purposes. Ad Hoc apps can be distributed via iTunes or over the air (OTA) using a URL. Run apps on devices with ad hoc provisioning profiles.

TestFlight is a service provided by Apple that allows developers to invite users to test their apps before they are released on the App Store. TestFlight allows developers to collect feedback from testers and make improvements to their apps before releasing them to the public. Also we know Beta App Test Provide beta app versions for up to 10,000 testers and collect feedback.

Apple Business Manager is a web-based portal that helps businesses and educational institutions streamline the deployment of iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and tvOS devices. With Apple Business Manager, organizations can purchase apps and books in volume, distribute and manage their devices, and provide their employees with access to key resources, such as the App Store and iCloud services. solutions, allowing organizations to easily configure and manage their iOS and macOS devices. This helps organizations ensure that their devices are secure and compliant with their policies.

Apple School Manager is a web-based portal that helps educational institutions streamline the deployment of iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and tvOS devices. With Apple School Manager, schools can purchase apps and books in volume, distribute and manage their devices, and provide their students and teachers with access to key resources, such as the App Store and iCloud services.

Regardless of the distribution method, all iOS apps must be signed with an Apple-issued certificate in order to run on iOS devices.