Setting up macOS for iOS Development
Step-by-step guide to configuring macOS for iOS development with links to essential tools.
Recently, I reset my MacBook due to some bugs and performance issues in macOS Sequoia. Now, I’m back on macOS Sonoma, starting fresh. I’ve decided to document my setup process for iOS development—not only for my own future reference but to share it with others who may find it helpful. In this guide, I’ll talk about the essential tools and configurations I rely on daily as an iOS developer. I’ve also linked to detailed posts where you can find specific setup instructions.
Installing Homebrew
The first step is to install Homebrew, the essential package manager for macOS. Homebrew makes it easy to install and manage software, libraries, and development tools. Check out my How to Install Homebrew on macOS post for detailed instructions on how to install Homebrew.
Zsh Configuration
I prefer Zsh over Bash for its modern features and flexibility. To improve the terminal experience, I use Oh My Zsh, a popular framework that enhances Zsh with themes, plugins, and improved usability.
Installing Zsh and Oh My Zsh
Check out my How to Setup an Amazing Terminal post for detailed instructions on how to install Zsh and Oh My Zsh.
Storing Your Zsh Configuration in GitHub
One important thing I do is store my Zsh configuration in GitHub. This allows me to easily sync my setup across multiple devices and keep track of changes over time. You can store your .zshrc and VSCode configuration files using a version-controlled repository on GitHub. Check out my guide on how to store Zsh and VSCode configurations in GitHub to learn more about this process.
Setting Up Version Managers
Managing different versions of programming languages and tools is crucial for maintaining projects efficiently. Here are the key version managers I use:
- rbenv: Managing multiple Ruby versions is easy with
rbenv, a must-have for tools like Fastlane and Jekyll. Learn how to set it up here. - Miniconda: If you need to handle Python environments for automation or data science, Miniconda is perfect. Follow this guide to install Miniconda.
- nvm (Node Version Manager): Seamlessly switch between Node.js versions with nvm, essential for JavaScript development. Check out the installation guide here.
- xcodes: Simplify managing multiple versions of Xcode for different projects. Here’s how to get started with xcodes.
- jEnv: Working with Java? Use jEnv to keep track of different Java versions efficiently. Set up jEnv by following this guide.
For Swift Development
- swift-format: Lint and format Swift code with swift-format. Learn how to use it here.
Daily Tools
Here’s a quick list of the tools I use daily as part of my iOS development workflow:
- Xcode: The core tool for iOS development.
- Android Studio: For working on Android projects.
- Android File Transfer: For transferring files between my Mac and Android device.
- VS Code: A versatile editor great for working with Copilot, Python, TypeScript, and more.
- Cursor: A modern AI-powered code editor that helps me write code faster and more efficiently.
- Docker: For containerization and managing development environments across multiple projects.
- GitHub Desktop: Simplifies GitHub operations and workflows.
- Notion: For taking notes and writing blog posts.
- Apple Books: I store all my technical and leisure books here, synced across my devices.
- NordVPN: One of the best VPN services for security and reliability.
- Portal: Great background sounds that help me focus during development.
- Slack: For work and team communication.
- Brave Browser: My go-to for secure and private browsing.
- Neat Download Manager: A powerful download manager that helps me manage my downloads efficiently.
- Espanso: A tool to replace text with macros.
- Maccy: A clipboard manager that helps me manage my clipboard history efficiently.
- Monitor Control: A tool to control my monitors.
- Drap Zone: A menu bar utility for macOS designed to enhance productivity by streamlining repetitive tasks through a drag-and-drop interface.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a new development environment can be exciting but also overwhelming. By using the right tools and version managers, you can ensure your system is consistent, backed up, and optimized for your work. Whether you’re working on iOS apps, web projects, or automation tasks, I hope this guide helps streamline your setup process.