How to become an ios developer

Is becoming an ios developer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do ios developers do?

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How to become an iOS Developer

Becoming an iOS developer involves several steps:

  • Learn the Fundamentals of Programming: Start by gaining a solid understanding of programming fundamentals, including concepts such as variables, data types, control flow, and object-oriented programming. You can learn these fundamentals through online tutorials, courses, books, or by enrolling in a computer science program.
  • Choose a Programming Language: iOS development primarily involves using Swift or Objective-C programming languages. Swift is the preferred language for iOS development due to its modern syntax, safety features, and performance improvements. Objective-C is still used in some legacy codebases, but Swift is becoming increasingly popular.
  • Familiarize Yourself with Development Tools: Get acquainted with Xcode, Apple's integrated development environment (IDE) for macOS, which is used to write, test, and debug iOS applications. Learn how to navigate Xcode's interface, use its built-in tools and utilities, and leverage features such as Interface Builder for designing user interfaces.
  • Learn iOS App Development: Dive into iOS app development by exploring concepts such as UIKit, App Store guidelines, MVC architecture, and iOS frameworks and APIs. Start with basic tutorials and gradually progress to more advanced topics, such as networking, data persistence, and user interface design.
  • Build Projects and Practice: Put your knowledge into practice by building iOS applications. Start with simple projects and gradually increase their complexity as you gain confidence and proficiency. Focus on building real-world apps that solve specific problems or showcase your skills to potential employers or clients.
  • Stay Updated and Continuously Learn: The field of iOS development is constantly evolving, with new technologies, frameworks, and best practices emerging regularly. Stay updated with the latest developments by following iOS developer communities, blogs, podcasts, and attending conferences or meetups. Continuously learning and improving your skills is essential for success as an iOS developer.
  • Create a Portfolio and Network: Build a portfolio of your iOS projects to showcase your skills and experience to potential employers or clients. Share your projects on platforms like GitHub or create a personal website to highlight your work. Additionally, network with other iOS developers, join developer communities, and participate in online forums to connect with industry professionals and opportunities.

Certifications
Earning certifications can help demonstrate your proficiency and expertise in iOS app development to potential employers or clients. Here are some certifications you may consider:

  • Apple Certified iOS Developer: Apple offers certification programs through its Apple Developer program. Although there isn't a specific certification for iOS development, becoming an Apple Certified iOS Developer involves passing exams that demonstrate proficiency in using Apple's development tools, programming languages, and frameworks. This certification can validate your skills and knowledge in iOS app development.
  • Vendor-Specific Certifications: Some third-party organizations offer vendor-specific certifications in iOS app development, often focused on specific skills or technologies such as Swift programming, UIKit framework, or iOS app design. While these certifications may not be officially recognized by Apple, they can still be valuable for showcasing your expertise in particular areas of iOS development.
  • Online Course Certificates: Completing online courses or bootcamps in iOS app development from reputable platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning can earn you certificates of completion. While these certificates may not hold the same weight as official certifications, they can still demonstrate your commitment to learning and acquiring relevant skills in iOS development.
  • Professional Association Memberships: Joining professional associations or organizations related to iOS development, such as the iOS Developer Program or local developer groups, can provide opportunities for networking, professional development, and access to resources and events. While not certifications in the traditional sense, membership in these organizations can enhance your credibility as an iOS developer.