Enabling Developer Mode on iPhone or iPad

Problem Statement

When attempting to run development builds or debug applications on iOS 16 or later, you may encounter an alert stating:

"Your App" required Developer Mode to run. Until Developer Mode has been enabled this app will not be available for use.

This security feature requires explicit user authorization before running developer-signed apps. This guide covers standard activation methods and troubleshooting solutions when the Developer Mode toggle is missing.

Standard Activation Method

Minimum requirements: iOS 16+ or iPadOS 16+

1. Open Settings on your device
2. Navigate to Privacy & Security
3. Scroll to the bottom and toggle Developer Mode ON
4. Confirm restart when prompted
5. After reboot, authenticate and confirm activation

TIP

The exact location may vary slightly between iOS versions. If Developer Mode isn't visible, proceed to the next section.

Fixing Missing Developer Mode Option

If Developer Mode doesn't appear in Settings, use Xcode to trigger the option:

1. Connect your device to your Mac using a USB cable

2. Open Xcode with any project (existing or new)

3. Ensure device is unlocked with screen active

4. Select your device in Xcode's device menu:

   • Xcode Window → Devices and Simulators
   • Or top bar device selector in Xcode 14+

5. On your iOS device:

   • Force-quit the Settings app (swipe up from app switcher)
   • Reopen Settings → Privacy & Security
   • Developer Mode should now appear

WARNING

If still missing:

• Try disconnecting/reconnecting the USB cable
• Restart both Mac and iOS device
• Update to latest Xcode version

Troubleshooting Developer Mode Issues

After enabling but apps still fail

• Restart your device
• Reconnect to Xcode:

  Xcode → Window → Devices & Simulators → Select device

• For Flutter projects: Build once through Xcode before using other IDEs

Device not recognized in Xcode

• Ensure cable and USB ports work properly (try different cable/port)
• Trust the computer when the "Trust This Computer?" alert appears
• Update to latest iOS and Xcode versions
• If using USB adapters: reconnect or update adapter firmware

Persistent activation failures

1. Unpair device in Xcode (Devices Window → right-click → Unpair)
2. Disconnect device
3. Reconnect and "Trust" computer when prompted
4. Retry enabling Developer Mode

DANGER

Avoid third-party tools for activation. Apple's official methods ensure proper security configuration and prevent potential issues.

Platform-Specific Notes

• Flutter: Use flutter run --release if persistent issues occur
• Xcode 15+: Developer Mode is required for wireless debugging
• iPadOS: Same activation path as iOS but requires iPadOS 16+
• Adaptive accessories: Test direct USB connections before using docks/adapters

For reference, Apple's official documentation covers all device types and scenarios:
Enabling Developer Mode on iPhone and iPad

Technical Background (Why Apple Enforces This)

Developer Mode prevents unauthorized sideloading and adds a security layer between production app usage and development activities. The manual activation requirement ensures device owners intentionally permit developer operations.

Last verified: Works with Xcode 15.4 and iOS 17.4.1 as of 2024-03-21