Enabling developer mode on iOS 18 grants access to advanced system features and tools intended for software development, debugging, and testing. This mode unlocks functionalities not typically available to standard users, allowing deeper interaction with the operating system. These tools facilitate the development and refinement of iOS applications. Access is not automatically granted and requires specific activation steps.
The activation of developer mode facilitates application testing on actual hardware, bypassing simulator limitations and offering a more accurate representation of real-world performance. Furthermore, it allows modification of system settings and access to logs and diagnostics that are crucial for identifying and resolving software issues. Historically, this process has become more streamlined as Apple has introduced more direct methods for enabling this functionality, balancing developer access with overall system security.