How to Deploy iOS Apps Without the App Store

How to Deploy iOS Apps Without the App Store (Enterprise Distribution & MDM)

Deploying iOS apps outside the App Store is essential for businesses and organizations that need to distribute applications internally without making them publicly available. Apple provides official methods for such distributions, including the Apple Developer Enterprise Program and Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions. Here’s a guide on how to deploy iOS apps without the App Store.

1. Using Apple Developer Enterprise Program

The Apple Developer Enterprise Program (ADEP) allows organizations to distribute internal apps to employees without submitting them to the App Store.

Steps to Deploy via Enterprise Distribution:

1. Enroll in the Apple Developer Enterprise Program

   • Your organization must apply for the Enterprise Program at Apple's official site.

   • Approval requires a D-U-N-S number and a legal business entity.

2. Create and Sign the App

   • Use Xcode to develop your app.

   • Sign the app using an Enterprise Distribution Certificate from the Apple Developer portal.

3. Host the App for Distribution

   • Upload the .ipa file to a secure internal website or a private server.

   • Create a manifest file (.plist) that includes the app's bundle ID, version, and download URL.

4. Provide Download Link to Users

   • Employees can install the app by clicking the installation link provided in an email or hosted on an internal webpage.

   • Users must manually trust the Enterprise Certificate under Settings > General > VPN & Device Management > Developer App before opening the app.

2. Using Mobile Device Management (MDM)

MDM solutions enable businesses to deploy and manage apps on iOS devices efficiently.

Steps to Deploy via MDM:

1. Set Up an MDM Server

   • Use solutions like Apple Business Manager, Microsoft Intune, Jamf, or AirWatch.

2. Enroll Devices in MDM

   • Employees must register their devices via Apple’s Device Enrollment Program (DEP) or manually enroll them in the MDM system.

3. Push the App to Devices

   • Upload the signed .ipa file to the MDM platform.

   • Configure deployment settings, including app installation without user intervention.

4. Manage App Updates and Security

   • MDM allows remote updates, revoking access, and enforcing security policies.

3. Ad Hoc Distribution (For Limited Testing)

Another way to distribute iOS apps outside the App Store is Ad Hoc distribution, which is ideal for small-scale internal testing.

Steps to Deploy via Ad Hoc Distribution:

1. Register up to 100 devices per app in the Apple Developer Program.

2. Generate an Ad Hoc provisioning profile and sign the app.

3. Share the .ipa file via direct download, email, or a third-party distribution platform like Diawi or TestFlight (for beta testing).

Conclusion

Deploying iOS apps without the App Store is crucial for organizations requiring internal app distribution. The Apple Developer Enterprise Program is ideal for large-scale deployments, while MDM provides centralized control and security. Ad Hoc distribution is best suited for small-scale testing. Each method has its advantages, and selecting the right approach depends on the organization's needs and infrastructure.