Developer explains how to build, sign, notarize, and deploy Mac and iOS apps from the command line without opening Xcode

The article argues that Apple developers can avoid Xcode’s GUI for most Mac and iOS app work by relying on command-line tools bundled inside Xcode, including xcodebuild, notarytool, stapler, and devicectl. After one-time setup steps such as installing Xcode, signing into an Apple ID, creating certificates, and storing notarization credentials, builds and releases can be automated with scripts.

The workflow reflects a broader shift toward AI-assisted and headless development, where LLM coding tools and automation replace manual IDE interactions. It also highlights a gap in Apple’s developer experience: Xcode remains required as a tool bundle, but many developers increasingly prefer scriptable pipelines over complex graphical workflows.