iOS Simulator
The iOS Simulator is a virtual iPhone or iPad that runs on your Mac. It’s the fastest way to test your app during development.What is a Simulator?
Simulators are virtual iOS devices provided by Apple as part of Xcode. They let you run and test your app without a physical device. Each simulator mimics a specific iPhone or iPad model.How Simulators Work
Simulators require two components:- iOS Runtime — The iOS operating system version (e.g., iOS 18.1)
- Simulator Device — A virtual device using that runtime (e.g., iPhone 17 Pro)
Installing via Paperline Doctor
Paperline Doctor automatically installs everything you need:- Downloads the latest iOS runtime
- Creates an iPhone 17 Pro simulator
Manual Installation
If you need additional simulators or runtimes:- Open Xcode → Settings → Platforms
- Click + to download additional iOS versions
- Open Window → Devices and Simulators
- Click + under Simulators to create new devices
Using Simulators in Paperline
- Click the device selector in the toolbar
- Choose a simulator from the list
- Your app builds and runs on that simulator
Physical Devices
You can also run your app on a real iPhone or iPad.Requirements
- iPhone or iPad running iOS 17+
- USB cable or same Wi-Fi network
- Apple Developer account (free or paid)
Connecting a Device
- Connect your device via USB
- Trust your Mac when prompted on the device
- The device appears in Paperline’s device selector
- Select it to build and run
Simulator vs Physical Device
| Feature | Simulator | Physical Device |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Faster builds | Slower builds |
| Camera | No | Yes |
| Sensors | Limited | Full access |
| Push Notifications | No | Yes |
| Performance Testing | Approximate | Accurate |
| Requires Apple ID | No | Yes |
Troubleshooting
No simulators available
No simulators available
iOS runtime may not be installed:
- Run Paperline Doctor and click “Install” for iOS Runtime & Devices
- Or manually: Xcode → Settings → Platforms → iOS
Simulator not appearing after install
Simulator not appearing after install
- Quit and reopen Paperline 2. Check Xcode → Window → Devices and Simulators 3. Create a new simulator if the list is empty
Physical device not recognized
Physical device not recognized
- Disconnect and reconnect the USB cable 2. Unlock the device and tap “Trust” when prompted 3. Check that Xcode sees the device in Window → Devices and Simulators
Build fails on physical device
Build fails on physical device
Usually a code signing issue:
- Open the project in Xcode
- Go to Signing & Capabilities
- Select your development team
- Try building again in Paperline