Final Step: Build & Export iOS (.ipa)

This is the final step of the AeroKites Edu installation guide. Follow the steps below to build and export the iOS .ipa file for testing or distribution.

A. Verify the Project Setup

Before proceeding, ensure the app runs correctly:

flutter clean
flutter pub get
cd ios
pod install
cd ..
flutter run
            

If the app runs successfully on a real device or simulator, proceed to the next step.

B. Build & Archive the iOS App

Run the following command to build the iOS app in release mode:

flutter build ios --release

This generates the necessary Xcode project files inside the ios directory.

C. Open Xcode & Archive

Next, archive the app using Xcode:

Open Runner.xcworkspace inside the ios folder.
Select Runner as the target.
Go to Product > Archive.
Wait for the archive process to complete.

D. Export the .ipa File

After archiving, follow these steps to export the .ipa file:

Go to Organizer in Xcode (Window > Organizer).
Select the latest archive.
Click Distribute App.
Choose Ad Hoc (for testing) or Enterprise (for in-house distribution).
Follow the on-screen steps to export the .ipa file.

E. Alternative: Export .ipa Using Terminal

If you prefer exporting the .ipa directly via terminal, run:

xcodebuild -exportArchive -archivePath build/ios/archive/Runner.xcarchive -exportOptionsPlist ExportOptions.plist -exportPath build/ios/ipa/
            

Ensure that ExportOptions.plist is correctly configured in the iOS project.

F. Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully built and exported the .ipa file for iOS. The app is now ready for testing or distribution.

Need Support?

If you encounter any issues, contact us at:

Email: info@aerokites.in