A Guide to Xcode: Top Use Cases and Pro Tips

Integrated development environments (IDEs) like Xcode make software development easy and interesting for programmers. If you are thinking of diving into iOS development, you’ll need to learn how to use Xcode. It is a great place to get started and enjoy peer programming with other iOS developers. 

This article functions as a guide to Xcode, including several Xcode tips to improve productivity. First, you will get a glimpse of what Xcode is, what it offers, how to use it, and the steps you need to put in place to use it. Finally, you will find a list of the top professionals that use Xcode. 

What Is Xcode?

Xcode is an integrated development environment designed by Apple for the development of software. It can be used for writing, editing, sharing, and deploying iOS, macOS, iPad, tvOS, and Apple Watch applications. Since it was launched in 2003 with Swift programming, the IDE has advanced a lot with additional tools added and less-relevant features removed. 

Why Do You Need Xcode?

You need Xcode if you want to develop software for Apple devices. The popular tool comes with a host of resources providing everything you need to create your program and execute it. With Xcode, you do not need any other code editor, compiler, or IDE. It is the complete package for iOS development. 

According to Statista, Apple is the most valuable technology brand worldwide. If you are interested in the development of apps or have a passion for software engineering, you will likely need to learn how to work with Apple products. Xcode might be the best IDE for you.   

Xcode Use Cases

• Write code: Xcode is the most popular tool used to write code for all Apple operating systems. This is its primary purpose. One need only to download the Xcode software on a Mac, install it, and start writing code snippets. It is not compatible with the Windows operating system. 
• Write test cases: Programmers can test their applications on Xcode using the test navigation feature. User interface (UI) designers can use this feature to check if their applications are up to standard. They can also speed up their app projects by automating tests on Xcode and access previous versions of their work. 
• Store iOS projects: Xcode also works as a project repository. All projects developed on Xcode can be stored safely in the Xcode Cloud database. Developers can keep track of all the changes they’ve made to their projects and revert changes when needed.  
• Edit code: Xcode also has a code editor. As designers write and deploy each piece of code for their app project, they can use Xcode to edit and make changes to the source code without ruining the entire program. They do not need to look for another code editor and can make necessary changes throughout the development cycle. 
• Compile code: Compilers are used to convert a current file from human-readable high-level programming languages to machine-readable low-level programming languages. Xcode can automatically compile code in bulk. 

Key Terms You Need to Know to Use Xcode  

Xcode Cloud 

Xcode Cloud is a continuous IDE service for developers and software engineers who prefer cloud-based technology. They can deliver applications over the Internet quickly and efficiently without large space or server rooms. Developers can also test applications and prototypes and gather user feedback through the Xcode Cloud in real-time. 

SwiftUI 

SwiftUI is a UI design development framework on Xcode. It allows Apple developers to create beautiful, colorful, and interactive user interfaces for their iOS devices. It can be used for a range of user interface elements for the iPhone, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and macOS. It is one of the most powerful tools for rapid development. 

Build Automation 

Xcode has a range of features that automate testing and building software tools. It converts the source code to machine code or binary code files. Developers can automate their project folder on Xcode with any of the native Apple developer tools. 

Project Navigator 

The project navigator on Xcode houses a collection of all Apple development projects hosted on Xcode. To start a new sample project, all that’s required is to go to the navigation bar at the top-left corner in project settings, create a current file, and start the project. 

Build Configurations 

A build configuration provides everything needed for rapid and continuous UI development on Xcode. Each project typically comes with its build configuration in the project directory. You can look there for further project details. 

Equipment You’ll Need for Xcode 

• MacBook: At the time of this writing, Xcode is only compatible with laptops that have the macOS. Only the newer versions of Mac laptops can be used for Xcode. An earlier version than 2012 might stall. 
• iMac: If you have an Apple desktop, you can use it instead of the MacBook. Just make sure the operating system is up to date. A slow Internet connection can also hamper the performance of Xcode.   
• Space: Your computer needs at least eight gigabytes in free storage to run Xcode freely. The RAM should be at least four gigabytes, but it’s better to have at least eight. 
• macOS 11: A Mac laptop or desktop needs to be running on the macOS 11 (operating system). Xcode is updated regularly, so only the latest version of Apple’s operating system can stay in the loop. 
• Money: Money might not be a piece of equipment, but it is an essential variable for using Xcode. Find more information about what you need on the official pricing page of Xcode, and enrollment is around $99. 

How to Set Up and Start Using Xcode 

Step 1: Download and Install Xcode

MacBook users can visit the Apple Store and search to download Xcode. There should not be any trouble downloading it with a 100Mbps Internet connection. If there is no app store on the laptop, Xcode is available on the office developer page. 

Step 2: Write a Program 

After the Xcode installation is complete, developers can then locate the editor area and start writing code with its powerful developer tools. If a piece of code is already written, it can be copied and pasted into the code editor. Remember to reindent the code if it’s pasted from an outside source. Everything necessary for this step is found in the project navigator area. 

Step 3: Start Building Complete Projects 

Once the code is written and ready for deployment, developers can start building projects. As long as the application they’re building is not in any violation of the Apple developer community, they can complete anything from an online course to a video game. It doesn’t have to be a Swift project, as Xcode works with multiple languages.

Step 4: Debug the Program to Fix Errors 

When the program is ready for rendering, run the debugger on Xcode. Go to the project navigator menu, click on the “debugger” button, and then click “run”. This process will generate a report within a few minutes. All the obvious bugs on the project file will be fixed automatically, leaving designers to only fix those that need manual effort. 

Step 5: Submit Your Application for Review 

At this point, the new app should be completely set up. However, interface builders will need to submit it to the Xcode organizers for code review and approval. Afterward, the application can be posted on the app store and commercialized. Information about in-app purchases and payments can be found using the search bar on the app store. 

The Importance of Xcode for Business

Business owners with an online presence will benefit from using Xcode to develop a mobile application for their businesses. It improves reach and ensures that iOS users have access to the business while they’re on the go. There are also Xcode bootcamps you can enroll in to learn how to use the software quickly. 

Creating iOS applications can also be the business, and there is no better way to do it than with Xcode. As the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts software developers will have a job outlook of 22 percent over the next decade, many tech professionals are eager to work in this field. 

Top Xcode Tips: Use Xcode Like a Pro

• Spell check codes: Spellcheck isn’t reserved for professional writers. Developers and software engineers can use the feature on Xcode to look for spelling errors in lines and blocks of code. The spellcheck option is located in the edit menu. 
• Always reindent code: It is common for programs or command-line tools to render incorrectly if copied from another platform. Using the reindent option on Xcode ensures that the program renders perfectly after pasting. 
• Lose unhelpful keys: Any shortcut or key that’s not used regularly should be remapped to reduce clutter and improve productivity. You can still find the keys again if you need them. 
• Run multiple tests: During test-driven development, developers should re-run any test that fails after they’ve made necessary adjustments. The fastest way to do this is by inputting the code Ctrl+Opt+Cmd+G. 
• Enable Minimap: This is one of the Xcode tips that speeds up development. Enabling Minimap ensures first-hand information about every aspect of the written program. 

Xcode for Different Professions

Should You Use Xcode?

Yes, you should use Xcode if you are running an app development company or are an independent contractor who makes apps for iOS devices. Xcode is the full package because it is an IDE. When you pay for it, you do not need to pay for an editor, compiler, or interpreter. It is worth the investment if you want to become an iOS developer. 

How to Use Xcode FAQ