Xcode

Xcode is an IDE provided by Apple, primarily for creating iOS and MacOS apps. In order to run apps on real devices, Xcode is required for signing iOS/macOS apps.

Tracking

Xcode requires an Apple ID to install, and sends telemetry to Apple during every local build and every launch^[1]^[2].

Usage

Xcode is irreplaceable for signing iOS/macOS apps. A 2024 Stack Overflow developer survey found almost no developers want to start using Xcode^[3].

References

[1] ttps://developer.apple.com/forums/thread/132709

[2] ttps://lapcatsoftware.com/articles/2025/2/5.html

[3] ttps://survey.stackoverflow.co/2024/technology#worked-with-vs-want-to-work-with-new-collab-tools-worked-want

[1]

[2]

[3]