1Step 1: Install Xcode
First, install the development tool called Xcode.
Method:
- Open the Mac App Store
- Search for “Xcode”
- Click the “Get” button to install
Recommended Points:
- Always install the latest version of Xcode (older versions are not recommended)
- Having at least 50GB of free space on your Mac will ensure a smooth experience
For Developers
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2Step 2: Log in with Apple ID
You need an Apple ID to build apps in Xcode.
Method:
- Launch Xcode
- Open the “Xcode” menu → “Settings” (or “Preferences”)
- “Accounts” tab → Add your Apple ID using the “+” button
Recommended Points:
- A free Apple ID is sufficient to start (no payment needed if you’re not publishing apps)
- If you aim to publish apps, you’ll need to register for the Apple Developer Program later ($99 per year)
3Step 3: Create a New Project
Method:
- Open Xcode and click “Create a new Xcode project”
- On the template selection screen, choose “iOS” → “App” and click “Next”
Recommended Points:
- For beginners, the “App” template is the only choice! (It’s the basic form of an empty app, perfect for practice)
- Avoid immediately selecting specialized templates like Game or AR
Important Note
Starting with basic templates allows you to learn iOS app development fundamentals more efficiently. Take on more complex templates only after you’ve established a solid foundation.
4Step 4: Enter Basic Project Information
- Product Name: Your app’s name (e.g., MyFirstApp)
- Team: Your Apple ID (can be left blank for test builds if you don’t have one)
- Organization Identifier: Reverse domain format (e.g., com.example)
- Interface: Storyboard (beginner-friendly)
- Language: Swift (essential, as it’s the current standard)
- Use Core Data: Off for beginners (don’t check if you don’t need data storage functionality)
- Include Tests: Off for beginners (add this after you’re comfortable with code development)
Recommended Points:
- Choose Storyboard for Interface (makes screen design visually intuitive)
- Swift is the only logical choice for Language (Objective-C is rarely used for new development)
- Keep it simple at first – tests and CoreData can be added later
5Step 5: Choose Project Storage Location
Method:
Specify where on your Mac to save the project under “Where”
- Example:
/Users/yourusername/Desktop/iOSProjects/ - Or:
/Users/yourusername/Documents/Projects/
Recommended Points:
- Create a dedicated folder (e.g., “iOSProjects”) to keep things organized
- Creating a projects folder at the beginning prevents scattered files and makes it easier to find your work later
6Step 6: Project Creation Complete!
Your project is now displayed in the Xcode development interface.
You can immediately run a virtual device in the iPhone Simulator!
Recommended Points:
- For initial testing, choose newer models like “iPhone 15 Pro” in the Simulator for smooth verification
- “Physical device testing” can wait until you’re more familiar with development (additional setup is required for physical devices)
Finally: Recommended Setup Examples
| Item | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|
| Interface | Storyboard |
| Language | Swift |
| Use Core Data | Unchecked |
| Include Tests | Unchecked |
| Storage Location | Create an iOSProjects folder on Desktop or in Documents |
Summary
The process for creating iOS apps with Xcode is very straightforward!
The most important thing is to “just get it running” first.
And when creating your project, don’t try to include too many options –
starting as simply as possible is the key to success!
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