How to Pass Data Using prepareForSegue in iOS Development

28 February 2025 Stephan Petzl Leave a comment Xcode

When developing iOS applications, it’s common to navigate between different views using segues. A frequent requirement is to pass data from one view controller to another during this transition. This guide will walk you through the process of passing data with the prepareForSegue method, ensuring your app’s data flow is seamless and efficient.

Understanding prepareForSegue

The prepareForSegue method is called just before a segue is performed. This method is your opportunity to prepare the destination view controller by passing any necessary data it needs to function properly.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Identify the Segue

First, ensure that you’re responding to the correct segue. This is typically done by comparing the segue’s identifier.

if ([[segue identifier] isEqualToString:@"YOUR_SEGUE_NAME_HERE"]) {

2. Obtain the Destination View Controller

Once you’ve identified the correct segue, you can obtain a reference to the destination view controller.

YourViewController *vc = [segue destinationViewController];

3. Pass the Data

With the destination view controller reference in hand, pass the necessary data. This is commonly done by setting properties on the destination view controller.

[vc setMyObjectHere:object];

Example in Swift

The following example demonstrates how to pass data using prepareForSegue in Swift:

override func prepare(for segue: UIStoryboardSegue, sender: Any?) {
    if let yourVC = segue.destination as? YourViewController {
        yourVC.yourData = self.someData
    }
}

Additional Techniques

For more dynamic scenarios, consider using the performSegueWithIdentifier:sender: method to trigger segues programmatically, allowing you to pass data based on user interactions or other conditions.

Enhancing Your App with Repeato

As you refine your app’s navigation and data passing capabilities, consider leveraging test automation tools like Repeato. Repeato’s no-code test automation for iOS and Android apps allows you to create, run, and maintain automated tests efficiently. Its fast test recording, editing, and execution, along with support for data-driven testing, can help ensure your app’s navigation and data flows work as intended without extensive manual testing. By using computer vision and AI, Repeato provides a practical alternative to traditional tools, eliminating common issues and simplifying your testing process.

Check it out!

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