Understanding and Resolving the PLBuildVersion Class Warning in Xcode

28 February 2025 Stephan Petzl Leave a comment Xcode

While working with iOS 10 and Xcode 8, developers might encounter a warning related to the PLBuildVersion class being implemented in multiple frameworks. This issue can be perplexing, especially for those who have recently transitioned from Xcode 7. Let’s delve into the nature of this warning, its implications, and the steps you can take to address it.

The Root of the Warning

The warning typically arises because the class PLBuildVersion is defined in both the PhotoLibraryServices.framework and the AssetsLibraryServices.framework. In Objective-C, class names must be unique, so having the same class name in multiple frameworks leads to ambiguity about which class will be used at runtime.

Why This Occurs

• When your app or its dependencies use frameworks like Photos/PhotosUI.framework or AssetsLibrary.framework, Xcode generates a warning if these frameworks depend on the conflicting ones.
• Both versions of PLBuildVersion are likely compiled from the same source, sharing the same methods and fields, which minimizes risk but doesn’t eliminate the warning.

Steps to Address the Warning

1. Report the Issue

Since developers don’t control the source of these classes, the primary action is to report the issue through official channels, such as Apple’s bug reporting system.

2. Update Privacy Descriptions

For those concerned about app stability and compliance with iOS 10 requirements, ensure your Info.plist file includes appropriate privacy descriptions:

• Photo Library Usage: Add a key for Privacy - Photo Library Usage Description with a value like $(PRODUCT_NAME) photo use.
• Camera Usage: Add a key for Privacy - Camera Usage Description with a value like $(PRODUCT_NAME) camera use.

3. Consider Framework Alternatives

In some cases, replacing a UIWebView with a WKWebView can resolve the issue, as the latter is a more modern and efficient web view component.

4. Clear Derived Data

If the warning persists, try clearing the derived data in Xcode using the shortcut Shift + Alt + Command + K. Restarting Xcode after this step can ensure that caches are fully cleared.

5. Reset the iOS Simulator

Sometimes, resetting the iOS Simulator (via Simulator -> Reset Content and Settings) can eliminate the warning, especially if it only appears in simulated environments.

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Unlike some other tools that may have limitations, such as scripting language constraints or resource-intensive operations, Repeato provides a flexible, efficient alternative. It saves all test and workspace data in text and JSON formats, facilitating easy version control and collaboration. For developers facing challenges with Xcode warnings or test automation, explore Repeato’s capabilities to enhance your development and testing workflow.

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