After you have finished developing the mobile app for iOS, you have to test it to ensure all the functionalities and capabilities are working properly. This will ensure two critical successes –
You have the option of testing the app in the iOS simulator and your own handheld device, but it makes sense to run the app on compatible devices and in real world conditions rather than simulated ones. This will ensure your app works perfectly when you launch it for users.
Beta Mobile App Testing
If you want to run your mobile app in actual conditions, you have to perform beta testing. While you can use the iOS simulator to run preliminary tests, remember the simulator doesn’t run similar threads as the devices and unfortunately Xcode tends to disable watchdog timers.
The only way to truly test the app is to use it in different devices and get actual users to use it. As a result, you will have an accurate picture of the performance of the app and how it behaves in the real world in terms of looks, navigation and functionalities.
Using Beta Testers
In the Developer Account, create an ad-hoc provisioning profile. You can get the instructions for this from the iOS Developer Library. Ensure the testers use the latest firmware for the device and get them to perform usability testing. Once they finish testing, ask for a comprehensive test report.
The beta testing phase costs money. So, do create a budget for it. On the other hand, if funds are tight, you may want to find testers through sites, like TaskRabbit and Craigslist. It is important to screen potential testers to shortlist the ones you want.
Self-Testing
There are many app developers, who prefer performing the tests themselves on multiple iOS-enabled devices. However self-testing is not recommended, as you may overlook characteristics that could cause problems to users when they use your app.
Unit Testing
This type of testing ensures that smallest element or units are tested for functionality, navigation, and look and feel.
Functional Testing
It is a system level comprehensive testing that checks for proper functioning of app from a user perspective. Tests written in JavaScript are executed as a part of the QA process to check test cases, call flows and user interface.
Third-Party App Testing Tools and Services
There are several third-party services that you can use. You also can implement an SDK, if you like. These tools and services offer a much better alternative than testing the app yourself. You can glean a lot of important information on how beta testers use the application.
Some of the information you can get using third-party testing tools and services include:
If you are keen on implementing SDK, there are free SDKs, such as TestFlight, that offer detailed reports on users’ interaction with the app and ways to improve the application. Free SDK is the perfect choice if you are on a budget. However, do remember you would have to find the beta testers first.
Mobile app testing for iOS can sound ominous and time consuming. However, testing your app before the big launch will help you fix all bugs and develop a user-friendly app.
