Xcode Cloud

What Xcode Cloud is

Xcode Cloud is Apple’s continuous integration and delivery service for developers using Xcode. It builds committed code changes and runs automated tests in parallel on cloud resources. Teams can tailor workflows or begin with a built-in workflow, then see build and test results, live status, and user crash feedback inside Xcode. The App Store Connect web dashboard also shows build and test information and lets users edit workflows and launch builds. Xcode Cloud can deliver builds to team members and selected external testers through TestFlight. It supports Git repositories hosted on Bitbucket, GitHub, and GitLab, including supported self-hosted versions. Apple says builds run in temporary isolated environments, source code is not persisted, credentials are not directly exposed to build environments, and data is encrypted in transit and at rest. Use requires Apple Developer Program membership, Xcode 15 or later, and a remote Git repository. The included plan provides 25 compute hours per month; paid plans begin at $49.99 a month for 100 hours. Unused compute hours do not carry into the next month. Teams can review usage in the Apple Developer app and App Store Connect, including build counts and duration, and export usage data as CSV.

Who it suits

Xcode Cloud suits Apple developers and teams who want cloud builds and parallel automated tests connected to their Xcode workflows. It also fits teams that distribute builds to internal members or selected external testers through TestFlight.

Limits

The included plan provides 25 compute hours per month, and unused hours do not roll over. Paid plans begin at $49.99 a month for 100 compute hours; higher listed plans provide 250, 1,000, or 10,000 monthly hours.

Getting started

1. Join the Apple Developer Program.
2. Use Xcode 15 or later.
3. Connect a remote Git repository hosted on Bitbucket, GitHub, or GitLab.
4. Choose the included 25-hour plan or a paid compute-hours plan.
5. Customize a workflow or begin with a built-in workflow.
6. Review build information in Xcode or App Store Connect.

Verdict

Choose Xcode Cloud if your team uses Xcode and wants cloud builds, parallel tests, and TestFlight delivery within connected Apple development tools. Look elsewhere if you cannot meet its membership, Xcode, or remote Git requirements, or need unused compute hours to carry forward.