How to Launch the iPhone Simulator Without “Build and Run”

How to Launch the iPhone Simulator Without "Build and Run"

28 February 2025 Stephan Petzl Leave a comment Xcode

If you’re working on an iOS application and need to delete an app from the simulator without initiating a “build and run” process, there are several methods available to start the iPhone Simulator independently. This guide will walk you through the steps, offering practical solutions to streamline your development workflow.

Launching the Simulator via Terminal

One efficient way to open the iPhone Simulator is through the Terminal application. This method is particularly useful if you’re comfortable with command-line operations and need quick access to the simulator without opening Xcode. 


open -a Simulator

This command will open the Simulator application directly. It’s a versatile approach that works across different versions of Xcode by adjusting the application name as needed.

Starting the Simulator from Finder

For those who prefer a graphical interface, you can also launch the simulator via Finder. Navigate to the following directory depending on your Xcode version:

  • Xcode 7.x to 15.x: /Applications/Xcode.app/Contents/Developer/Applications/Simulator.app
  • Xcode 6.x: /Applications/Xcode.app/Contents/Developer/Applications/iOS Simulator.app
  • Xcode 4.x, 5.x: /Applications/Xcode.app/Contents/Developer/Platforms/iPhoneSimulator.platform/Developer/Applications/

Simply open the Simulator application from these locations, and you’re ready to manage your apps without initiating a build.

Using Spotlight to Open the Simulator

Another user-friendly method is using Spotlight. This approach is straightforward and doesn’t require navigating through directories or using the Terminal. Simply press Command + Space to open Spotlight, and type “Simulator” to launch the application.

Repeato: Streamlining Your Testing Workflow

While managing the simulator is a crucial part of the development process, automating tests is equally important. This is where Repeato comes in. As a no-code test automation tool, Repeato allows you to create, run, and maintain automated tests for iOS, Android, and web apps efficiently.

With features like a test recorder, fast test editing, and execution powered by computer vision and AI, Repeato simplifies complex tasks. It’s a practical alternative to tools like Katalon, offering a more flexible scripting environment and better integration with version control systems. Explore our documentation to learn more about how Repeato can enhance your testing process.

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