iOS Release

As Apple App Developer, Actually as a hybrid platform app developer using Flutter and Dart, there are a lot of barriers to distribute an app. I’ve distributed about 5 apps since 2020 but, distribution doesn’t get easy. I was planning to write some summary how to deploy on App Store and here it is.

Disclaimer

You definately need a Mac to deploy on App Store. You need to build an app with XCode. It’s necessary. Also, Apple Developer account is needed. Also, I am using Flutter, Dart and Android Studio so, it may be a slightly different from deploy only with Swift. XCode part will be same, I guess.
Also, check if your XCode app is up to date. You may need to install the older versions of iOS simulators.

Before Deployment

After developing all your codes, algorithms and UI/UX, you need to first test it on other format of simulators. App Store Connect requires 3 different Screenshot size. 6.7 inch, 6.5 inch, 5.1 inch. Each are iPhone 15 pro Max, iPhone 11 pro Max, iPhone 8 plus. There may be some overflow of text or other kinds of errors. You may find those bugs first.

Second, open the terminal inside Android Studio. Then enter flutter clean. It removes other unnecessary files and rebuilds your app. There will be a lot of wiggly underlines but, don’t worry. Just type flutter build ios. It may take time.

Actual Deployment

After cleaning and building with ios, find directory named Runner.xcworkspace. It is the crucial part of running your app inside XCode. Right click on that directory and find Flutter > Open iOS/macOS module in XCode. It may open with XCode app.
If you turn your app inside XCode, it start processing file. You need to wait for that process is finished. If it’s over check the following instructions.

XCode > Product > Destination > Any iOS Device
XCode > Product > Scheme > choose scheme > Runnner
XCode > Product > Archive

Also, check signing & capabilites and make it to signed.

After Deployment

If Actual Deployment is finished, you may see pop-ups. Go follow those steps and if it’s done, go to App Store Connect. Make your app, write some required parts. For the app build, the button will show. Choose the version you’ve build and upload it to App Store Connect.

That’s it. It’s the simplist way of deploying Dart/Flutter app through android studio and XCode. Of course, there are a lot of issues and rejections waiting ahead. Don’t be frightened. Everybody gone thorugh those problems!