Before TestFlight became the standard, Ad Hoc distribution was the primary way developers shared iOS betas. In 2026, it remains a critical tool for developers who need instant distribution without waiting for Apple's processing times.
This article explains what iOS Ad Hoc distribution is, how it works, and when you should use it over TestFlight.
What is Ad Hoc Distribution?
Ad Hoc distribution is a method of releasing an iOS app to a limited number of registered devices. It uses a special "Ad Hoc" provisioning profile that includes a list of allowed device identifiers (UDIDs).
When a user tries to install an Ad Hoc build, iOS checks if their device's UDID is present in the app's embedded provisioning profile. If it is, the app installs. If not, the installation fails.
The Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Instant Updates: No waiting for "Processing" or Beta App Review.
- Real Environment: Test the exact binary that you might resign for production later.
- Stability: Builds don't expire as quickly as early TestFlight builds (Ad Hoc profiles last 1 year).
Disadvantages
- UDID Management: You must collect the UDID from every single tester.
- Rebuilding Required: If you add a new tester, you must regenerate the profile and rebuild (or re-sign) the app.
- Device Limit: Limited to 100 iPhones, 100 iPads, etc., per year.
How to Distribute an Ad Hoc Build
1. Collect UDIDs
Ask your testers to send you their UDID. You can use a tool like BetaDrop to send them a link that automatically extracts their UDID.
2. Register Devices in Apple Developer Portal
Go to Certificates, Identifiers & Profiles → Devices. Click the (+) button and enter the device name and UDID.
3. Create/Update Provisioning Profile
Go to Profiles, select your Ad Hoc profile (or create a new one), and ensure the new devices are checked in the list. Download the updated profile.
4. Build or Archive
In Xcode, Archive your app. Select Distribute App → Ad Hoc. Xcode should automatically fetch the updated profile if you're signed in.
5. Share the IPA
You'll get an .ipa file. You can install this using:
- Apple Configurator 2 (Wired)
- Xcode Devices Window (Wired)
- OTA Distribution (Wireless) - Using a service like BetaDrop.
When to Use Ad Hoc vs. TestFlight
Use Ad Hoc when:
- You are testing with a small, known internal team.
- You need to validate a build immediately (e.g., a hotfix) without waiting for Apple.
- You are testing features that might be rejected by TestFlight review (e.g., private APIs for internal tools).
Use TestFlight when:
- You are running a public beta with unknown users.
- You have exceeded the 100 device limit.
- You don't want to deal with UDIDs.
Summary
Ad Hoc distribution is the "manual transmission" of iOS deployment. It gives you more control and speed but requires more hands-on management of devices. For small teams prioritizing iteration speed, it is often superior to TestFlight.
