How to Create Bundle IDs for Your iOS Apps

Introduction

Your app’s Bundle ID uniquely identifies it within Apple’s ecosystem, preventing conflicts and ensuring smooth distribution. By using reverse domain name notation (e.g., com.fruit.oranges) and appending .test for your Test App, you keep production and testing builds distinct. This guide shows you how to log into your Apple Developer account, register both your Release and Test App Bundle IDs, and enable essential capabilities like Push Notifications and Sign In with Apple.

Creating Your Release App Bundle ID

1. Log in to your Apple Developer account with the Apple ID you used to enroll in the Apple Developer Program.
   
2. Go to Certificates, Identifiers & Profiles.
   
3. Select the Identifiers tab and click the + button.
   
4. Choose App IDs and click Continue.
   
5. Enter a Description, for example “Release App.”
   
6. Under Bundle ID, select Explicit and enter your chosen ID (e.g., com.fruit.oranges).
   
7. In the Capabilities section, check:
   
   • Push Notifications
     
   • Sign In with Apple
     
8. Click Register to save your Release App Bundle ID.
   

Creating Your Test App Bundle ID

1. Repeat steps 1–4 from the Release App section above.
   
2. Enter a Description, for example “Test App.”
   
3. Under Bundle ID, select Explicit and enter com.fruit.oranges.test.
   
4. In Capabilities, check:
   
   • Push Notifications
     
   • Sign In with Apple
     
5. Click Register to save your Test App Bundle ID.
   

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: I don’t see the Identifiers tab or the + button.
A: Ensure you’re signed in as the Team Agent or Admin on a paid Apple Developer Program team. Only those roles can create App IDs.

Q: My chosen Bundle ID is rejected as “already in use.”
A: Bundle IDs must be unique across Apple’s ecosystem. Pick a different reverse-domain string (e.g., add your company name or app version).

Q: I forgot to enable a capability, can I update it later?
A: Yes. Return to Certificates, Identifiers & Profiles > Identifiers, select your App ID, click Edit, check the needed capability, and click Save.

Q: Do I need separate Bundle IDs for TestFlight builds?
A: Yes. Using a .test suffix prevents TestFlight builds from colliding with your production app and keeps data separate.

Q: Can I delete an App ID if I make a mistake?
A: No, Apple does not allow deletion of App IDs. You must register a new one with a different Bundle ID if needed.