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How to Enable iPhone Developer Mode with/without Xcode [iOS 26/18]
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 or iOS 26 (beta), 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 26/iOS 18.
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Part 1: What is Device Developer Mode
What exactly is iOS Developer Mode?
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.
Part 2: How to Enable iPhone Developer Mode on iOS 26/iOS 18
Way 1. Enable iPhone Developer Mode on iOS 26/iOS 18 [One Click]
It is the simplest method for turning on iPhone developer mode is Tenorshare iCareFone . It offers a free feature to help iPhone and iPad users enable iPhone Developer Mode Settings.
- Easy Use: Simple and intuitive, perfect for beginners.
- Quick Start: Quickly enable Developer Mode without Xcode.
- iOS Support: Works with iOS 26, iOS 18.5, iOS 18, and all older devices.
- Extra Tools: Offers PC backup, photos transfer, data management, HEIC conversion, test reports, and iPhone mirroring.
Steps to enable developer mode without Xcode on iOS 26/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.
Next, open the Settings app on your phone and select Privacy & Security.
Scroll down to find the Developer Mode. Turn on it.
A pop-up window appears when the phone is rebooted. To enable developer mode, click "Turn On" again and then enter the device password.
Video Guide to Enable iOS 26/iOS 18 Developer Mode[Free & Easy]
Users Review about Enabling Developer Mode with iCareFone
Many postive reviews proves that iCareFone Developer Mode is easy and effective to enable.
Way 2. Enable iOS 26/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 26/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.
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.
When your iPhone is restarted, choose "Turn On" from the pop-up windows to finally enable iPhone developer mode on iOS 26/iOS 18.
Way 3. Enable iPhone Developer Mode with Xcode
If you don’t see the iOS 26/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.
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Download and install Xcode on your Mac, then launch it.
Once Xcode opens, go to Window > Devices and Simulators. Your iPhone will appear in the Devices list. If Developer Mode is off, Xcode will show a warning and instructions on enabling it.
- Connect your iPhone to your Mac using a USB cable. If this is your first time connecting the device, tap “Trust This Computer” when prompted.
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Developer Mode. Turn on the toggle. iOS will ask to restart your device—tap Restart.
- After the restart, unlock your iPhone. A system alert will appear asking to enable Developer Mode. Tap Turn On and enter your passcode to confirm.
- Developer Mode is now enabled. You can use Xcode to run development builds, test apps, or install internal distribution builds. You can turn it off anytime, but you will need to repeat this process to enable it again.
Part 3: Is It Safe to Enable iPhone Developer Mode on iOS 26/iOS 18
Whether you should enable Developer Mode on your iOS 26/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 4: FAQs on How to Enable iPhone Developer Mode
Q1. How come my iPhone is not showing Developer Mode?
Your iPhone might not show Developer Mode if the system is outdated, you aren’t signed in with an Apple ID, or the device hasn’t connected to Xcode or a trusted developer app. Make sure your iPhone is updated to iOS 16 or later and restart it. If you installed an app from outside the App Store, open it once so the Developer Mode prompt can appear.
Q2. Why enable Developer Mode on iPhone?
Developer Mode allows you to install and test apps that aren’t from the App Store. It’s required for debugging, running apps through Xcode, and using various development tools. If you sideload apps or test your own builds, Developer Mode must be turned on for them to work correctly.
Q3. What iOS version supports Developer Mode?
Developer Mode is available on iOS 16 and later. Any iPhone running iOS 16, iOS 17, or newer will have this feature. Devices on iOS 15 or earlier won’t show the Developer Mode option.
The Bottom Line
There you have it — that’s everything you need to know about enabling Developer Options on iOS 26/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 26/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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- Supports the latest iOS 26 and iPhone 16
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