Xcode Export

Export your Despia iOS App as a Native Xcode Project

This guide explains how to export your Despia application as a complete Xcode project, giving you full access to the native Swift code.

Overview

Despia's Xcode Export feature allows you to download your entire iOS project, including all source files and dependencies. This enables advanced developers to:

  • Make low-level modifications to the native code

  • Integrate additional third-party libraries

  • Configure custom build settings

  • Deploy directly through Xcode

Note: This approach is recommended for experienced iOS developers who are comfortable working with Xcode and Swift. If you're not familiar with iOS development, we recommend using the Auto Publish option instead.

Export Process

1

Access the Export Option

  1. Log in to your Despia dashboard

  2. Open your project

  3. Click on the Export Project button in the top navigation bar

2

Select Swift Project

In the export modal that appears:

  1. Click on the Swift Project option

  2. You'll see a preview of some of the native Swift code that will be included in your export

  3. Review the folder structure displayed in the preview panel

3

Export Source Code

  1. Click the Export Source Code + Dependencies button at the bottom of the modal

  2. Your browser will download a ZIP file containing your complete Xcode project

  3. The download may take a few moments depending on your project size and connection speed

Working with the Exported Project

Opening in Xcode

  1. Extract the downloaded ZIP file to a location on your Mac

  2. Double-click the .xcworkspace file

  3. Xcode will open your project

  4. Wait for Xcode to complete indexing the project

Working with the Project

The exported project follows standard iOS project architecture and contains all the necessary components to build and deploy your application. Once opened in Xcode, you'll have access to the complete source code, resources, and configuration files that make up your app.

Xcode will automatically organize the project into its standard navigator view, making it easy to browse through the different sections of your application.

Making Modifications

When modifying the exported project:

  1. Make your desired changes to the code or configuration

  2. Test thoroughly on simulators and physical devices if available

  3. Build and archive your application using Xcode's built-in tools

  4. Submit to the App Store following the standard submission process

Important Notes:

  • Once you export and modify the project outside of Despia, those changes won't automatically sync back to your Despia project

  • Consider using version control (like Git) to track your changes

  • The exported project contains all the necessary dependencies and configurations to build a complete iOS application

Publishing Your Modified App

After making your modifications:

  1. In Xcode, select your target and ensure signing is configured correctly

  2. Select Product > Archive to create an archive of your application

  3. Use the Xcode Organizer to upload your build to App Store Connect

  4. Complete the submission process in App Store Connect

Getting Help

If you encounter any issues with the exported project:

  • Check that you have the latest version of Xcode installed

  • Ensure all dependencies are properly linked

  • Verify that your Apple Developer account is correctly configured in Xcode

For additional assistance:

We're happy to help with any questions about the export process, though extensive custom development assistance may be outside our support scope.

Remember that this option is primarily for advanced developers who need direct access to the native code. For a simpler publishing experience, consider using our Auto Publish feature instead.

Updated on
Auto Publish
Android Distribution