Apple is introducing significant updates to its app testing platform, TestFlight, alongside the iOS 18 updates. These changes give developers more control over who can join their beta tests and how new features are shared with testers. Developers can now track metrics related to their beta tests, such as the number of invite views and opt-ins, providing valuable insights for further development.
These enhancements will help developers target their beta tests more effectively and gather feedback before launching their apps on the App Store. The redesigned invitations will provide testers with more information about the app, helping them decide whether to participate in the test group.
The new invitations highlight upcoming features in the app or game, encouraging testers to try it out. In addition, beta builds of apps already approved for the App Store will now include screenshots and category information in the invite, making the beta testing experience more akin to downloading from the App Store. This could potentially compete with alternative testing platforms like Airport and Departures.
Developers can now set criteria for TestFlight testing to target specific audiences based on device type or OS version, ensuring a more relevant test group. This helps conserve spots in popular betas for users who can fully participate. Developers can also limit the number of testers in the group for better access control.
Invites will now be sent through a public link, allowing developers to track metrics on invite views and acceptance rates. Developers can see which potential testers did not meet the set criteria and users can provide feedback on why they chose not to join the beta test.
