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xcode-build

Automate iOS and macOS builds and simulator management with Xcode CLI tools.

137|7|Updated Dec 16, 2025
Search Tags:#CLI automation#iOS#macOS#xcodebuild#xcrun#simctl#UI tests
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/pzep1/xcode-build-skill --skill xcode-build
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: xcode-build
Source: https://github.com/pzep1/xcode-build-skill/tree/main/skills/xcode-build
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/pzep1/xcode-build-skill --skill xcode-build

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill enables developers and testers to build, run, and automate iOS/macOS projects directly from the command line using Xcode's native tools (xcodebuild and xcrun simctl). It replaces MCP-based tooling and reduces reliance on external servers, speeding up CI/local workflows and simplifying the debugging process.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Builds apps for iOS, macOS, and simulators using xcodebuild.
  • Simulator management with xcrun simctl (boot, install, launch, logs).
  • Screenshots & logs capture from the simulator for quick validation.
  • UI testing automation via XCUITest in CLI workflows.
  • Discovery: quickly inspect schemes, destinations, and build settings.

Quick Start

Build for a local workspace: xcodebuild -workspace /path/to/App.xcworkspace -scheme App -destination "platform=iOS Simulator,id=$UDID" build Find the built app and install on the simulator: APP_PATH=$(find /tmp/build -name "*.app" -type d | head -1) xcrun simctl install $UDID "$APP_PATH" Launch the app: xcrun simctl launch $UDID com.your.app

Frequently Asked Questions about xcode-build

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I automate iOS app builds from the command line?▼

Automate iOS builds using xcodebuild with workspace, scheme, and simulator destination parameters. xcodebuild -workspace /path/to/App.xcworkspace -scheme App -destination "platform=iOS Simulator,id=$UDID" build compiles your app directly without the Xcode GUI, enabling CI integration and scripted workflows.

Can I manage iOS simulators and install apps programmatically?▼

Yes, xcrun simctl controls simulator lifecycle and app installation. Boot simulators, install .app bundles, launch apps, and capture logs entirely from the CLI. This eliminates manual simulator management and integrates simulator workflows into automated testing pipelines.

How do I run UI tests and capture screenshots in automated workflows?▼

Execute XCUITest suites via xcodebuild test commands targeting simulator destinations, then capture screenshots and logs using xcrun simctl. This enables end-to-end UI test automation and visual validation without leaving the command line.

What's the best way to discover available schemes and build destinations for my Xcode project?▼

Use xcodebuild -workspace/project and -showBuildSettings or -list flags to inspect schemes, destinations, and build configuration. Quick discovery accelerates build script setup and prevents destination mismatches in CI or local automation.

Do I need an external CI server to automate my iOS build and test workflows?▼

No, xcodebuild and xcrun simctl replace MCP-based tooling and external servers for local CI. Native Xcode CLI tools handle builds, simulator management, testing, and deployment entirely on-machine, reducing infrastructure complexity and speeding feedback loops.

Can I archive and export iOS apps for distribution from the command line?▼

Yes, xcodebuild archive and -exportOptionsPlist enable end-to-end app export automation for TestFlight, App Store, or ad hoc distribution. Command-line archiving and export streamline deployment workflows without Xcode GUI interaction.

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