How to Distribute an iOS App with Ad Hoc Distribution

In this guide, we'll explain how to distribute an iOS app using Ad Hoc Distribution with an Apple Developer Program account.

The distribution of the .ipa file (the binary file of the iOS app) is done via over-the-air (downloading and installing the app through the internet).

To distribute iOS apps with Ad Hoc Distribution, you need to be enrolled in the paid Apple Developer Program. For details, see About the Apple Developer Program.


Now, let's walk through the steps for Ad Hoc Distribution.

Table of Contents
  1. What Is Ad Hoc Distribution for iOS Apps?
  2. How to Create an iOS Distribution Certificate
    1. Generate a CSR (Certificate Signing Request) on Mac
    2. Create a Distribution Certificate for Ad Hoc Distribution
    3. Install the Ad Hoc Distribution Certificate on Mac
  3. How to Create an App ID for Your iOS App
    1. Set the Bundle Identifier in Xcode
    2. Create an App ID in Apple Developer
  4. How to Register Devices for Ad Hoc Distribution
    1. Check Registered Devices in Apple Developer
    2. Obtain the Device UDID (Unique Device Identifier)
    3. Register Target Devices in Apple Developer
  5. How to Create an Ad Hoc Provisioning Profile
  6. How to Configure a Provisioning Profile in Xcode
    1. Set the Ad Hoc Provisioning Profile in Xcode
    2. Configure the Ad Hoc Distribution Certificate in Xcode
  7. How to Generate an .ipa File for Ad Hoc Distribution in Xcode
  8. How to Host an .ipa File for Ad Hoc Distribution (Over-the-Air)
    1. Prepare the Manifest File (.plist) for Ad Hoc Distribution
    2. Create and Host an HTML File with the Install Link
    3. Install the iOS App on a Device via Ad Hoc Distribution
    4. Troubleshooting Over-the-Air Distribution Issues

What Is Ad Hoc Distribution for iOS Apps?

Ad Hoc Distribution allows you to distribute iOS apps without the App Store, directly to registered devices for testing or internal use.

This requires registering the devices beforehand, and the Apple Developer Program account has limits on how many devices you can register.

The current limits are up to 100 devices per type (e.g., 100 iPhones, 100 iPads).


The Provisioning Profile is valid for one year. Distribution certificates are valid for one year with the Apple Developer Program, and three years with the Apple Developer Enterprise Program.

If either expires, the app will stop working until renewed.


While the Apple Developer site and Xcode UI may change over time, the fundamental steps remain the same. I hope this guide is helpful for you.