How to Enable iPhone Developer Mode on iOS 18

by Anna Sherry   Updated on 2024-09-14 / Update for  iPhone Tips

The release of iOS 18 has brought forth a wave of excitement among Apple enthusiasts and developers alike. With new features and enhancements, this latest iteration promises to push the boundaries of what iPhones are capable of. In order to explore the full potential of iOS 18 developer, enabling Developer Mode is crucial. In this article, we will delve into the details of Developer Mode, its safety, and the step-by-step methods to enable Developer Mode on iOS 18.

Part 1: What is Device Developer Mode

So, what exactly is iOS Developer Mode?

Well, the Developer Mode is used to enable features used for developing apps for iOS devices. How do you install an app normally? You head into the App Store and get an app you like. You can also use the TestFlight app to test apps in. However, before iOS 16, you could also install testable apps using Xcode.

With iOS 16, Apple blocks the installs of those testing apps — until you enable the Developer Mode. Simply put, iOS developer 18 mode limits the development tools from the reach of most consumers. If you aren’t a developer and not testing apps, you will never even notice the feature is even there.

When Does iOS 18 Come Out

The iOS 18 developer was released on Sept 18, 2024, shortly after the WWDC 2024 keynote where iOS 18 was unveiled. This follows Apple's typical pattern of releasing the first developer on the same day as the WWDC keynote. You can visit developer.apple.com, the official website for the Apple Developer Program, to access resources, tools, and information related to developing apps and software for Apple's various platforms

Part 2: Is It Safe to Enable iPhone Developer Mode on iOS 18

Now, you must be wondering whether you should enable Developer Mode on your iOS 18 device and whether it’s safe. Well, you need to ask yourself, “Do I really need this feature?” Remember, most people won’t even find this feature useful as it’s not something you need in your daily life. It’s only for development purposes and must be used by people who’re developing and testing iOS apps.

If you’re a developer and you know what you’re doing, and you want to enable this feature for work, then yes this feature is safe for you. But if you’re not a developer, you don’t need to use this feature, so you’re better off keeping it off.

Part 3: How to Enable iPhone Developer Mode Settings on iOS 18

There are 3 ways you can go enable the Developer Settings iPhone on iOS 18, and they’re as follows.

Way 1. Enable iPhone Developer Mode on iOS 18[One Click]HOT

It is the simplest method for turning on iPhone developer mode. An all-in-one iOS data management solution is Tenorshare iCareFone. It offers a free feature to help iPhone and iPad users enable iPhone Developer Mode Settings no matter what iOS versions they are using, including iOS 18. With only one click with iCareFone, you will see the "Developer Mode" option from your iPhone settings!

Additionally, iCareFone offers free PC backup for your iPhone. The bulk of features, including photos transfer, data management, HEIC converter, iPhone test report, and iPhone mirror, are also available to users of iCareFone.

See how to enable iPad/iPhone developer mode without xCode on iOS 18 via iCareFone:

  • Download and install Tenorshare iCareFone on your PC and connect your device with it by using a lightning to USB cable.

  • After the device is connected, click on the edit button (represented by a pen icon) next to the Quick Access section on the home page. Then, add developer mode tool to the quick access section to use.

    enable iPhone developer mode with iCareFone enable iPhone developer mode with iCareFone
  • Next, open the Settings app on your phone and select Privacy & Security.

    enable iPhone developer mode with iCareFone
  • Scroll down to find the Developer Mode. Turn on it.

    enable iPhone developer mode with iCareFone
  • A pop-up window appears when the phone is rebooted. To enable developer mode, click "Turn On" again and then enter the device password.

    enable iPhone developer mode with iCareFone

Video Guide to Enable iOS 18 Developer Mode[Free & Easy]

Way 2. Enable iOS 18 Developer Mode from iPhone Settings

If you’re on iOS 18 developer, you can enable Developer Options from iPhone Settings without any third-party tools.

Turning the feature on is quite easy and simple. However, Apple only placed the options in iPhone Settings when they are testing the iOS 18 version, which means you may not find the Developer Mode option from Settings now. To check and turn on Developer Mode iPhone, follow the steps below.

  • Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Go to Privacy & Security.

    turn on iPhone developer mode
  • Scroll down to find the "Developer Mode" Option. Turn on the “Developer Mode” toggle, then confirm that you want to enable this feature. Your iPhone will restart.

    turn on iPhone developer mode
  • When your iPhone is restarted, choose "Turn On" from the pop-up windows to finally enable iPhone developer mode on iOS 18.

    turn on iPhone developer mode

Related read Developer Mode Not Showing iPhone/iPad on iOS 18.

Way 3. Enable iPhone Developer Mode with Xcode

If you don’t see the iOS 18 Developer Mode option in the Settings app, then try Xcode.

To enable Developer Mode and run apps, you will need to set up Xcode on your Mac and then enable Developer Mode. Here’s how you can do that.

Note: Unless you utilize a virtualization platform, it is not possible to use Xcode on a Windows PC.

  • Download and set up Xcode on your Mac.

    Xcode
  • Take your USB to Lightning cable and connect your iPhone to the computer.
  • If you’re connecting the phone to the computer for the first time, you will need to trust the computer. Simply tap “Trust This Computer” when prompted on your iPhone.
  • Now, open the Settings app and go to Privacy & Security > Developer Mode.
  • Turn on the toggle and confirm that you want to enable the feature.

The Bottom Line

There you have it — that’s everything you need to know about enabling Developer Options on iOS 18. By following the steps outlined in this article, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of iPhone Developer Mode in iOS 18. Remember to always use reliable and reputable tools, such as Tenorshare iCareFone, and consult the official Apple documentation for further guidance. Happy exploring!

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