Tuesday, May 20, 2025

5 Best Ways to Learn iOS App Development on Windows 2025

5 Best Ways to Learn iOS App Development on Windows

iOS app development typically uses Xcode, which runs exclusively on macOS. However, if you only have a Windows PC
, you can still learn and develop iOS apps using different methods. In this blog, we’ll explore the 5 best ways to get started with iOS app development on Windows.

1. Use a Cloud Mac (Best for Beginners & Professionals)

Since Xcode requires macOS, one of the easiest solutions is to rent a cloud-based Mac. These services allow you to access a macOS environment remotely and use Xcode, Swift, and other tools without needing a physical Mac.

Popular Cloud Mac Services:

  • MacinCloud – Provides remote access to macOS for development.

  • MacStadium – Offers high-performance cloud Macs for developers.

  • Amazon AWS EC2 Mac Instances – Suitable for enterprise-level development.

Pros:

  • No need to install macOS on Windows.

  • Works on any Windows device with an internet connection.

  • Reliable and legal method.

Cons:

  • Requires a monthly subscription.

  • Performance depends on internet speed.

2. Install macOS on a Virtual Machine (Intermediate Level)

Another way to run Xcode on Windows is by installing macOS on a virtual machine (VM). You can use software like:

  • VMware Workstation

  • Oracle VirtualBox

This method allows you to run macOS inside Windows, install Xcode, and develop iOS apps.

How to Set Up macOS on a VM:

  1. Download a macOS ISO file.

  2. Install VMware or VirtualBox.

  3. Configure the virtual machine to run macOS.

  4. Install Xcode and start coding!

Pros:

  • Free method to use macOS on Windows.

  • Full control over the development environment.

Cons:

  • Performance may be slow and laggy.

  • Requires high-end hardware (16GB RAM or more).

  • Setting up can be complex and time-consuming.

3. Use Cross-Platform Frameworks (Best for Windows Users)

If you don’t want to deal with macOS, you can use cross-platform frameworks like Flutter, React Native, or Xamarin to develop iOS apps directly on Windows. You’ll still need a Mac to compile and publish the app, but you can do most of the development on Windows.

Best Cross-Platform Frameworks for iOS Development:

Framework

Language

Best For

Flutter

Dart

Fast UI development, startups & freelancers

React Native

JavaScript

Web developers, cross-platform apps

Xamarin

C#

.NET developers, enterprise apps

Pros:

  • No need for macOS during development.
  • Build iOS and Android apps with a single codebase.
  • Large community support.

Cons:

  • You still need a Mac to publish iOS apps.
  • Limited access to iOS-specific features.

4. Use Remote Mac Access (For Occasional Users)

If you only need a Mac occasionally, you can use remote access software like:

  • TeamViewer

  • AnyDesk

  • Chrome Remote Desktop

This method allows you to connect to a real Mac remotely (if you have access to one) and use Xcode.

Pros:

  • No need to install anything on Windows.

  • Works on low-end PCs.

Cons:

  • Requires access to a Mac.

  • Laggy performance if the internet speed is slow.

5. Buy a Used or Affordable Mac (Best Long-Term Solution)

If you are serious about iOS development, the best long-term solution is to invest in a used or budget Mac. Some affordable options include:

  • Mac Mini (M1 or Intel) – Budget-friendly and powerful.

  • Refurbished MacBooks – Available at lower prices on Apple’s website or third-party sellers.

Pros:

  • Best performance and full access to iOS development tools.

  • No workarounds required.

  • Supports iOS simulators and debugging.

Cons:

  •  Requires an initial investment.

  • Higher cost than virtual solutions.


Final Thoughts: Which Method Should You Choose?

Method

Best For

Cost

Complexity

Cloud Mac

Beginners & professionals

Medium 

Easy 

Virtual Machine

Intermediate learners

Free/Low 

Hard 

Cross-Platform

Web developers & mobile devs

Free 

Medium 

Remote Mac Access

Occasional users

Free 

Easy

Buy a Mac

Serious iOS developers

High 

Very Easy 

Want to Learn iOS Development the Right Way?

Whether you’re a beginner or an aspiring professional, our iOS App Development Course is designed to help you master Swift, Xcode, UI design, and App Store publishing — all from scratch.

Learn Swift, build real-world apps, and launch your first iOS app — all with expert guidance.

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(Or contact us to know the next batch details.)


Recommended:

  • If you are a beginner, → Use a Cloud Mac

  •  If you want free options, → Try Virtual Machines or Cross-Platform Frameworks

  •  If you are serious about iOS development → Buy a Mac

By choosing the right method, you can start learning iOS app development on Windows and build amazing apps! 

Which method do you prefer? Let us know in the comments!


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