Resolving the iOS Simulator Build Error for Linked Frameworks

28 February 2025 Stephan Petzl Leave a comment Xcode

Running into issues when building for the iOS Simulator can be frustrating, especially when the linked framework was built for iOS. This guide will walk you through a practical solution to resolve this common problem, ensuring your app runs smoothly on both simulators and actual devices.

Understanding the Issue

If you’re encountering an error message indicating that a linked framework was built for iOS while attempting to run your app on the iOS Simulator, it could be due to several reasons. Often, this issue arises when the framework is not compatible with the simulator architecture or when your project settings need adjustment.

Solution: Adjusting Build Settings

A highly effective method to address this issue involves modifying the Build Settings in Xcode. Follow these steps to resolve the error:

• Open your project in Xcode.
• Navigate to the Build Settings tab.
• Locate the Validate Workspace setting.
• Set Validate Workspace to YES.
• Optionally, you can revert it back to NO after this change.

This approach resolves the issue by ensuring that the necessary validation parameters are correctly set, allowing the simulator to recognize and handle the framework appropriately.

Alternative Approach: Using XCFrameworks

Another robust solution is to convert your framework into an XCFramework. This format is Apple’s recommended method for supporting both iOS and iOS Simulator architectures. Here’s a brief overview of how to transition to an XCFramework:

• Ensure Build Libraries for Distribution is enabled in your build settings.
• Create an XCFramework using Xcode’s build tools, combining simulator and device frameworks.
• Replace the existing framework in your project with the newly created XCFramework.

This method not only solves the immediate build error but also aligns your project with Apple’s latest standards, ensuring long-term compatibility and stability.

Enhancing Testing with Repeato

To further streamline your development workflow, consider integrating Repeato, a no-code test automation tool designed for iOS, Android, and web apps. Repeato’s fast test recording and execution capabilities, powered by computer vision and AI, make it an excellent choice for automating complex tasks without extensive scripting.

Repeato supports data-driven and keyword-driven testing, and its use of text and JSON formats for saving tests allows for easy version control. This makes it a practical alternative to other test automation tools, offering a seamless experience for developers looking to enhance their app testing processes.

For more insights and detailed guidance, explore our documentation and discover how Repeato can elevate your app development and testing strategy.

Check it out!

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