How to Become an iOS Developer (Code Your Way Up)

If you’ve ever dreamed of creating an innovative iOS app or wondered what it takes to become an iOS developer, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to take to kickstart your career as an iOS developer. We’ll discuss:

The skills you need.
The education that can help you get there.
How to land a job as an iOS developer.

So, whether you’re a coding beginner or a tech-savvy individual looking to specialize, stay tuned.

We’re about to unveil the roadmap to becoming an iOS developer.

Let’s embark on this journey!

Contents show

Steps to Become an iOS Developer

Step 1: Understand the Basics of Computing and Programming

To start your journey towards becoming an iOS developer, it’s essential to have a fundamental understanding of computing and programming.

Learn about basic computing concepts such as data structures, algorithms, and computer networks.

Get comfortable with coding and problem-solving.

You don’t need to be an expert in all areas, but a solid foundation will help you in your learning journey.

Moreover, become familiar with at least one programming language.

Although you’ll primarily use Swift or Objective-C for iOS development, having a grasp on programming fundamentals in general languages like Python, Java, or C++ can be incredibly beneficial.

Whether you’re self-learning using online resources or enrolled in a computer science degree, make sure to focus on understanding the concepts instead of just memorizing them.

Practice coding regularly to internalize these concepts and improve your problem-solving skills.

Remember, getting a solid foundation in computing and programming sets the stage for your success as an iOS developer.

Step 2: Learn Swift Programming Language

Swift is the primary programming language used for iOS application development and Apple’s ecosystem.

Therefore, gaining proficiency in Swift is a crucial step in becoming an iOS developer.

You can find numerous online resources, tutorials, and courses that teach Swift, many of which are free.

Apple also offers Swift Playgrounds, an app designed to make learning Swift interactive and fun, especially for beginners.

When learning Swift, focus on understanding its syntax, optionals, control flow, classes, inheritance, initialization, error handling, and much more.

Developing a solid foundation in Swift will not only enable you to create iOS apps but also understand the intricacies and capabilities of the iOS platform.

Remember, becoming proficient in Swift takes time and practice.

It’s advisable to work on small projects initially, gradually moving to more complex ones as your skills improve.

Also, regularly staying updated with new additions and changes in the language will help you become a competent iOS developer.

You could also participate in coding challenges and contribute to open-source projects to strengthen your Swift programming skills.

Finally, keep in mind that learning Swift is not a one-time activity but a continuous process, as the language keeps evolving.

Step 3: Familiarize Yourself with Apple’s Developer Tools

As an aspiring iOS developer, it’s crucial to become proficient in Apple’s suite of developer tools.

These include the Xcode integrated development environment (IDE), which is where you will be writing and testing your Swift code.

Xcode also allows you to create interfaces with SwiftUI or the Interface Builder, simulate your application on different Apple devices, and analyze performance data of your apps.

Another important tool is the iOS SDK (Software Development Kit).

This contains libraries and tools that you’ll use to create iOS applications.

It includes the APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) you need to integrate your app with iOS system services like HealthKit, iCloud, or Siri.

Apple’s TestFlight is another tool you’ll likely use.

It allows you to test your app and gather valuable feedback before launching it on the App Store.

For managing app versions and collaborating with other developers, you’ll use Git and GitHub, integrated into Xcode.

Learning to use these tools effectively can greatly streamline your iOS development process.

You can find various tutorials on Apple’s official developer website and other learning platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and YouTube.

Additionally, practicing by working on your own iOS projects will help you get comfortable with these tools.

Step 4: Practice UI/UX Design Principles for iOS

As an iOS developer, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of UI/UX design principles specifically tailored for iOS applications.

You need to consider the look and feel of your application from the user’s perspective, ensuring it is not only visually appealing but also functional and user-friendly.

You can start by exploring Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines, which provide detailed instructions and best practices for designing the user interface of iOS applications.

Familiarize yourself with the core design principles, visual design, interaction design, and the platform’s unique conventions.

Understanding these will help you create apps that feel intuitive and natural to users, thereby improving user engagement and satisfaction.

Additionally, you can practice your UI/UX design skills by creating mock-ups or wireframes of iOS applications.

There are many tools available such as Sketch, Adobe XD, and Figma that can aid in this process.

It’s also beneficial to seek feedback on your designs from other developers or users to identify areas for improvement.

Remember, creating a seamless user experience is an iterative process and involves a lot of trial and error.

By continuously practicing and refining your design skills, you’ll be better equipped to develop high-quality iOS applications.

Step 5: Develop and Practice with Small iOS Projects

As an aspiring iOS developer, it’s essential to start creating and practicing with small iOS projects after understanding the basics.

It’s crucial to gain hands-on experience in developing apps for iOS devices such as iPhones and iPads.

These projects could be anything from a simple calculator app, a weather app, a to-do list app or a small game.

Creating your own projects will help you understand the process of app development from start to finish.

You will get a chance to put into practice what you’ve learned about programming languages, software frameworks and tools, user interface design, databases, and more.

This can also give you an opportunity to make mistakes and learn from them.

Remember, the objective of these projects is not just to build an app, but also to understand how different components of iOS development work together.

Always try to explore and implement different features in your apps.

When you have built a few apps, you can showcase them in your portfolio.

This will give potential employers a chance to see your skills in action.

It can also be a good idea to upload your code to a platform like GitHub, which can demonstrate your coding ability and your understanding of iOS development best practices.

Don’t forget to review and refine your work constantly.

As your knowledge grows, revisit your projects to improve and update them.

This iterative process is a significant part of development and will keep your skills sharp and up-to-date.

Step 6: Study iOS Frameworks and Design Patterns

As an iOS Developer, it’s essential to get familiar with iOS frameworks such as UIKit, Core Data, Core Animation, Core Graphics, and others.

These frameworks provide the building blocks to create advanced and interactive apps.

Knowledge of these frameworks will give you an advantage in understanding and efficiently using the tools Apple provides for iOS development.

In addition to frameworks, having a good understanding of design patterns is also crucial.

Design patterns, like MVC (Model-View-Controller), MVVM (Model-View-ViewModel), and others are guidelines for designing efficient solutions to common problems in software design.

They help in writing code that is more organized, reusable, and easier to understand.

There are multiple resources available online to learn about iOS frameworks and design patterns.

It includes documentation provided by Apple, online tutorials, and courses on platforms like Coursera or Udemy.

You might also want to experiment with building your own apps to get a practical understanding of these frameworks and patterns.

Remember, technology keeps updating and evolving.

Therefore, continuous learning and staying updated with the latest iOS frameworks and design patterns is a must in this job role.

Step 7: Engage with the iOS Developer Community

Becoming an active member of the iOS Developer community is an essential step in enhancing your career as an iOS Developer.

This can involve joining online forums, attending industry events, or contributing to open-source projects.

These platforms will give you opportunities to interact with other experienced developers, learn about the latest iOS development trends, and get constructive feedback on your work.

Forums such as GitHub, Stack Overflow, or the Apple Developer Forum are great places to begin.

They provide platforms where developers share knowledge, ask questions, and help each other solve complex programming issues.

In addition to learning from others, you can also share your expertise and insights, thereby establishing your presence and reputation in the community.

Attending conferences and meetups such as WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference) or local iOS developer meetups can also provide you with networking opportunities and insights into the latest industry trends and best practices.

Contributing to open-source projects can be another excellent way to engage with the community while also sharpening your iOS development skills.

Not only will you be helping to improve software that many people rely on, but you’ll also be showing potential employers that you’re committed to continual learning and growth.

Remember, being part of a community is not just about taking; it’s also about giving back.

Share your knowledge, help others, and contribute to discussions.

This reciprocal relationship will help you grow as an iOS developer and expand your professional network.

Step 8: Contribute to Open Source Projects or Build a Portfolio

As you develop your skills as an iOS developer, one of the best ways to gain practical experience and enhance your resume is by contributing to open source projects or building a portfolio.

These pursuits not only demonstrate your technical ability, but also show potential employers that you are proactive, dedicated, and able to work in real-world development environments.

Open source projects are public programming projects where anyone can contribute.

By participating in these projects, you can gain experience working on real-world iOS applications, learn from other experienced developers, and have tangible proof of your work.

Some popular platforms to find open source projects include GitHub and GitLab.

On the other hand, building your own portfolio means developing your own iOS applications from scratch or improving upon existing ones.

This allows you to showcase your creativity, problem-solving skills, and ability to work independently.

You can then publish these applications on the App Store, which serves as a platform for potential employers to view and assess your work.

Whether you choose to contribute to open source projects or build your own portfolio, ensure that you continually update and refine your work.

This will help you to stay current with the latest iOS development trends and practices, showcasing your commitment to continual learning and improvement.

Step 9: Gain Real-world Experience Through Freelancing or Internships

After acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge, the next crucial step is to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world environment.

This can be achieved through freelancing or internships.

Freelancing as an iOS developer offers a flexible and practical platform to kick-start your career.

It provides an opportunity to work on a variety of projects and hone your skills.

You can start by offering your services to small businesses or startups, which are always in need of app developers.

Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr are good places to find freelance jobs.

Internships, on the other hand, provide a structured way to gain experience.

You get to work in a professional setting, under the guidance of experienced developers.

It allows you to understand how an organization functions, how to work in a team, and how to handle project deadlines.

Furthermore, if you perform well during your internship, it could potentially lead to a full-time job offer.

Regardless of the path you choose, gaining real-world experience will help you understand how to handle client expectations, develop your problem-solving skills, and improve your code.

It will also make your resume more appealing to potential employers.

Remember, the more experience you have, the more desirable you will be as a candidate for an iOS developer position.

Step 10: Prepare for iOS Developer Interviews

The iOS Developer interview process can be challenging, so it’s crucial to be well-prepared.

Your preparation should include technical aspects, problem-solving skills, and understanding the iOS platform’s specifics.

Technical Knowledge: Brush up on your Objective-C and Swift programming knowledge, as these are the most commonly used languages in iOS development.

You should also understand the use of APIs, data structures, algorithms, and design patterns.

Problem-solving Skills: Most interviews will include whiteboard coding challenges.

Practice problem-solving by using platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank, focusing on problems related to mobile development.

Understanding iOS Specifics: Be ready to answer questions about iOS-specific topics, such as memory management, Objective-C runtime, UIKit, AutoLayout, Core Data, Core Animation, GCD, and blocks.

Projects and Portfolio: Showcase your skills with a strong portfolio.

Include all the iOS apps you have developed, preferably those published on the App Store.

Be ready to discuss the projects you’ve worked on, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them.

Behavioral Questions: Practice answering behavioral questions, as these reveal your soft skills, cultural fit, and approach to problem-solving.

They may ask you about your experiences in team projects, how you handle tight deadlines, or how you deal with conflicts in the team.

Mock Interviews: Finally, conduct mock interviews to get a feel for the real interview process.

This will help you understand the kind of questions asked and develop strategies to answer them effectively.

Remember, every interview is a learning experience.

Even if you don’t get the job, the interview can help you identify your strengths and areas for improvement.

Step 11: Apply for iOS Developer Positions

After you’ve built up a solid portfolio and have advanced your skills, the next step in becoming an iOS developer is to start applying for available positions.

Job postings can be found on various online platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, or even Apple’s job board.

It’s important to tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific job you apply for.

Highlight your relevant skills, experience, and projects that align with the job description.

It’s also beneficial to demonstrate your passion for iOS development and continuous learning.

During the application process, you can expect to undergo technical interviews where you’ll be asked to solve coding problems or review code.

Be prepared to talk about your previous projects, your problem-solving process, your familiarity with Swift and Objective-C, and your experience with the iOS development environment.

Remember, it’s okay to apply for positions even if you don’t meet 100% of the job qualifications.

Sometimes, demonstrating a strong willingness to learn and adapt can be just as valuable as having all the required experience.

Keep in mind that it’s a competitive field, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t get the first job you apply for.

Persistence is key in landing your first iOS developer role.

iOS Developer Roles and Responsibilities

iOS Developers are skilled in developing applications for Apple’s iOS operating system.

They are responsible for designing and building applications, ensuring that the code is efficient, readable, and maintainable, and that the final product meets user needs.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

App Development

Design, code, and debug iOS applications using Swift/Objective-C.
Ensure high performance and responsiveness of applications.
Integrate with iOS-specific APIs and services.

Problem Solving

Analyze application requirements and propose solutions.
Debug and troubleshoot issues in applications.
Optimize code and algorithms for performance and efficiency.

UI/UX Design

Work closely with designers to create user-friendly interfaces.
Ensure the application aligns with Apple’s design principles and app guidelines.

Testing and Quality Assurance

Write unit tests and UI tests for the application.
Ensure application meets quality and security standards.
Conduct performance and stress testing on applications.

Documentation

Create technical documentation for code, APIs, and systems.
Maintain documentation and keep it up-to-date.

Collaboration

Work closely with cross-functional teams (designers, product managers, QA engineers).

Version Control

Use version control tools like Git to manage code repositories.
Understand branching, merging, and conflict resolution.

Agile/Scrum

Follow Agile methodologies for project management.
Participate in daily stand-ups, sprint planning, and retrospectives.

App Store Deployment

Prepare applications for deployment to the App Store.
Understand and manage app versioning and release process.

Performance Optimization

Identify and resolve performance bottlenecks.
Optimize algorithms, database queries, and code for efficiency.

Security

Be aware of security best practices and potential vulnerabilities in iOS development.
Implement security measures to protect applications and data.

Maintenance and Updates

Provide ongoing support for deployed applications.
Apply updates, patches, and bug fixes as needed.

Technical Research

Research and evaluate new tools, libraries, and frameworks for iOS development.

Mentoring and Knowledge Sharing

Conduct code reviews and provide constructive feedback.

Communication

Communicate technical information effectively to non-technical stakeholders.
Document and communicate project progress and issues.

Continuous Learning

Maintain and improve technical skills and knowledge.
Attend conferences, workshops, and training programs.

What Does an iOS Developer Do?

iOS Developers are software professionals who specialize in creating, updating, and managing applications for Apple’s iOS platform, primarily for devices like the iPhone and iPad.

They are responsible for translating ideas and designs into functional, user-friendly applications.

This involves conceptualizing and designing the app’s interface, then coding it using programming languages like Swift or Objective-C.

iOS Developers work with other software engineers and developers to ensure code quality and efficiency.

They also collaborate closely with UX/UI designers to create an intuitive and engaging user experience.

Part of their job is to ensure the applications they develop are secure, efficient, and up-to-date.

They test the application’s performance, identify any issues or bugs, and debug the application to ensure it runs smoothly.

Once the application is live, iOS Developers monitor user feedback, make necessary updates or improvements, and occasionally launch new features to keep the application relevant and competitive.

In addition to creating new applications, iOS Developers might also be tasked with updating and improving existing apps.

This can involve adding new features, enhancing user experience, or addressing security issues.

They should have a strong understanding of Apple’s design principles and application interface guidelines.

They also need to stay updated with any updates or changes in the iOS platform and development tools.

Essential iOS Developer Skills

Swift: This is the primary programming language for iOS development. Proficiency in Swift, including understanding its syntax, optional handling, and control flow is essential.
Objective-C: While Swift has become more prevalent, some older projects may still use Objective-C. Knowledge of this language can be beneficial.
iOS Frameworks: Understanding of iOS frameworks like UIKit, Core Data, Core Animation, etc. is necessary to build complex applications.
UI and UX Design: iOS developers should have a strong understanding of user interface and user experience design principles. They should be able to build intuitive, attractive, and responsive interfaces that meet Apple’s design guidelines.
Apple’s Xcode IDE: Proficiency in using Xcode, Apple’s integrated development environment, is crucial. This includes knowledge of Interface Builder, Xcode’s built-in tool for designing and testing user interfaces.
Version Control Systems: Familiarity with Git and other version control systems is important for managing changes and collaborating with other developers.
Problem Solving: Being able to identify issues and solve them efficiently is a vital skill. This includes debugging skills and the ability to troubleshoot code effectively.
App Store Principles: Knowledge of the process for deploying apps to the App Store, including Apple’s guidelines and submission process, is essential.
Networking: Understanding how to manage data transfer between an app and a server is critical. Knowledge of protocols like HTTP and REST, and libraries like Alamofire can be beneficial.
Memory Management: iOS developers should understand how memory is managed in Swift and Objective-C to optimize app performance and prevent memory leaks.
Concurrency: Understanding how to write concurrent code using Grand Central Dispatch (GCD) and Operation Queues to ensure smooth performance for tasks like data fetching and processing.
Testing: Proficiency in writing unit tests and UI tests to ensure the codebase remains robust and error-free.
Continuous Integration: Knowledge of continuous integration tools like Jenkins or Travis CI is beneficial for automating the build, testing, and deployment process.
Teamwork: iOS developers often work in teams, and hence, collaboration, communication, and interpersonal skills are crucial.
Coding Standards: Adherence to good coding practices, like writing readable and maintainable code, is essential to work effectively in a team and ensure long-term maintainability of the project.

iOS Developer Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Junior iOS Developer

Your career as an iOS Developer begins at the Junior level.

This is the stage where you familiarize yourself with Swift, Objective-C, and other iOS-related technologies.

Your responsibilities will include writing code, debugging issues, and contributing to small projects under the guidance of a senior.

Here are some tips for excelling in this role:

Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with the latest iOS development trends, libraries, and best practices.
Learn from Seniors: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your seniors and learn from their experience.
Build a Portfolio: Start working on personal projects or contributing to open-source projects to build a strong portfolio.

The Ascent: iOS Developer

With a few years of experience and a good understanding of iOS development, you can progress to the position of an iOS Developer.

You will be expected to handle more complex tasks, contribute to architectural discussions, and possibly mentor junior developers.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

Enhance Skills: Keep improving your coding skills. Focus on writing efficient, reusable, and reliable Swift code.
Collaborate: Work closely with designers, product managers, and other stakeholders to deliver high-quality applications.
Quality Assurance: Write unit tests and use automation tools to ensure the quality and performance of your app.

Reaching New Heights: Senior iOS Developer

As a Senior iOS Developer, you are expected to lead projects, make key decisions regarding application architecture, and mentor other developers in your team.

Mentor Others: Share your knowledge and experience with junior developers to help them improve their skills.
Think Big: Consider the entire ecosystem of your app, from user experience to data security and performance optimization.
Leadership: Show initiative and take ownership of projects to drive them to completion.

Beyond the Horizon: Lead Roles and Beyond

As you gain more experience and expertise, you could progress to roles such as Lead iOS Developer, iOS Architect, or even Engineering Manager.

These roles involve more strategic decision-making, leadership, and planning.

Technical Leadership: Influence the direction of your team’s technology and processes.
Management Skills: Develop managerial skills if you aspire to transition into a leadership role.
Innovation: Keep innovating and adopting new methodologies to stay ahead of the curve.

Pinnacle of Success: Director of iOS Development or VP of Engineering

At the highest level, you could become the Director of iOS Development or VP of Engineering, where you’ll be responsible for driving the overall strategy for iOS applications across the organization, making critical decisions, and leading larger teams.

iOS Developer Salary

Entry-Level iOS Developer

Median Salary: $60,000 – $90,000 per year
Entry-level iOS developers typically have less than 2 years of experience and are likely to hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field. They are skilled in Swift or Objective-C and other iOS frameworks.

Mid-Level iOS Developer

Median Salary: $90,000 – $120,000 per year
Mid-level iOS developers usually have 2-5 years of experience. They have a deep understanding of iOS development and are skilled in designing and building advanced applications for the iOS platform.

Senior iOS Developer

Median Salary: $120,000 – $160,000 per year
Senior iOS developers have 5+ years of experience. They are responsible for architecting, coding, and innovating large scale apps. They also mentor junior developers and lead iOS development in the team.

Lead iOS Developer / iOS Development Manager

Median Salary: $140,000 – $200,000+ per year
These roles require significant iOS development experience and involve leading a team of developers, decision-making, project management, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality apps.

Principal iOS Developer / Technical Director / VP of iOS Development

Median Salary: $180,000 – $250,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience, deep technical expertise in iOS development, and leadership skills. They often involve setting technical strategies for iOS development and overseeing the overall app development process.

iOS Developer Work Environment

iOS Developers predominantly work in a tech-centric office environment, such as software companies, IT consultancies, marketing agencies, or in the IT departments of a diverse range of businesses.

They can also work remotely from their homes or co-working spaces, as the job primarily requires a computer and an internet connection.

The working schedule of an iOS developer is typically a standard 40-hour week, although this may extend when project deadlines are looming.

Developers may also need to be available outside of traditional working hours to resolve any unexpected issues or bugs.

After gaining substantial experience and building a portfolio, an iOS developer might opt for freelance work, offering their services to various clients.

Some may even venture into creating their own applications or establishing a startup.

FAQs About Becoming an iOS Developer

What is needed to become an iOS developer?

Becoming an iOS developer requires a deep understanding of the Swift or Objective-C programming languages, which are used to develop applications for Apple’s iOS operating system.

Additionally, you should be proficient in using Apple’s development tools, such as Xcode, Cocoa Touch, and Core Data.

A bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field can provide a solid educational foundation, though it is not always required.

Important skills include problem-solving, creativity, attention to detail, and an understanding of good UI/UX design.

How long does it take to become an iOS developer?

The time it takes to become an iOS developer can vary significantly depending on your starting point and the time you can dedicate to learning and practicing.

If you’re already proficient in a programming language, you may learn Swift and iOS development in six months to a year of focused study.

If you’re new to programming, it might take a couple of years of study and practice to become proficient.

Contributing to open-source projects, building your own iOS apps, or participating in an internship can help you gain practical experience and speed up the learning process.

Can I become an iOS developer without a degree?

Yes, it is possible to become an iOS developer without a traditional four-year degree.

Many employers value practical skills and real-world experience over formal education.

You can learn programming and iOS development through online courses, coding bootcamps, or self-study.

Building a portfolio of iOS apps that you’ve developed, contributing to open-source projects, or gaining experience through internships can enhance your job prospects.

Is iOS development a stressful job?

Like any software development role, iOS development can be stressful at times due to tight deadlines, troubleshooting complex issues, and the need to keep up with the frequent updates and changes in Apple’s tools and guidelines.

However, the level of stress can vary depending on the company, the specific role, and your personal stress management strategies.

Despite the challenges, many iOS developers find the job rewarding and enjoy the creative process of building apps that positively impact users.

What are the prospects for iOS developers in the next decade?

The job prospects for iOS developers look promising for the next decade.

As the popularity of Apple’s devices continues to grow around the world, so does the demand for new and innovative apps.

In addition, emerging technologies like augmented reality and machine learning, which Apple is heavily investing in, present exciting opportunities for iOS developers.

Conclusion

And so, we conclude.

Embarking on a journey to become an iOS developer is no easy task, yet it’s exceptionally fulfilling.

Equipped with the right skills, education, and a never-give-up attitude, you’re well on your way to making a significant mark in the mobile app industry.

Remember, the journey may be tough, but the potential for growth and success is infinite. Your innovative apps could spearhead the next big revolution, transforming how we live, work, and connect.

So, take that initial step. Immerse yourself in learning. Mingle with industry professionals. And most importantly, keep coding.

Because the world is eager to see what you can develop.

And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or boosting your career in iOS development, look no further than our AI-powered career path advisor.

This complimentary tool is specifically designed to offer tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path seamlessly.

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