Xcode 4.1 Free On App Store For Lion Only - MacRumors
Skip to Content

Xcode 4.1 Free On App Store For Lion Only

by

Along with the release of OS X Lion this morning, Apple also served up version 4.1 of development suite Xcode, available for free from the Mac App Store [App Store Link].

xcode
The prior version of Xcode was offered for $4.99 on the App Store to non-developers when it was released earlier this year.

Apple has traditionally included updated developers tools for free on the OS install DVD. With the advent of digital delivery, Apple has chosen to offer Xcode as a separate app download.

It seems likely that the $4.99 charge was related to Apple's convoluted accounting practices related to the addition of features without receiving direct payment for them. Because an improved version of Xcode wasn't originally included with Snow Leopard, Apple was required to charge for it to comply with certain accounting rules.

In its earnings call yesterday, Apple noted a change in how it was accounting for a portion of Mac and OS X sales to avoid such problems in the future.

Top Rated Comments

Intell Avatar
196 months ago
I can get it for free on my Snow Leopard Mac as well.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
fireshot91 Avatar
196 months ago
I can get it for free on my Snow Leopard Mac as well.

As can I
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
196 months ago
I'm getting an installation alart asking me to close iTunes part way through - iTunes hasn't been open, and yet...


Anyone got any good ideas?

Edit: Terminal "killall iTunesHelper"

Case sensitive (for when future google searches pull me back here ;-))
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
196 months ago
I'm glad I waited! :) :cool:
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)
uanuglyfool Avatar
196 months ago
I'm getting an installation alart asking me to close iTunes part way through - iTunes hasn't been open, and yet...


Anyone got any good ideas?

Edit: Terminal "killall iTunesHelper"

Case sensitive (for when future google searches pull me back here ;-))

Thank you sir! Exactly what I was looking for.
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)
res1233 Avatar
196 months ago


What's the difference between installing 4.1 from MAS Vs. The developer portal? Do both come with SDK etc? If it's the same I'd rather download from te store.
They're exactly the same. The Xcode in the MAS comes with everything, including the iOS SDK. (at least it did with 4.0)
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)

Popular Stories

apple wallet drivers license feature iPhone 15 pro

Apple Says iPhone Driver's Licenses Will Expand to These 6 U.S. States

Thursday July 9, 2026 7:29 am PDT by
In select U.S. states, residents can add their driver's license or state ID to the Apple Wallet app on the iPhone and Apple Watch, and then use it to display proof of identity or age at select airports and businesses, and in select apps. To set up the feature, open the Wallet app on the iPhone and tap on the plus sign in the top-right corner. Next, tap on Driver's License and ID Cards,...
apple silicon 1 feature

Apple Silicon is Taking an Unexpected Turn

Friday July 10, 2026 7:24 am PDT by
Ever since the Mac switched from Intel processors to Apple silicon starting in 2020, each generation of M-series chips has included higher-end Pro and Max variants. If a recent report proves to be accurate, though, that streak will be coming to an end. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple will be releasing a regular M6 chip, but it has no plans to offer higher-end M6 Pro and M6 Max...
iphone 16 teal

'Siri AI' Lawsuit Update: Apple to Pay Owners of These iPhone Models

Thursday July 9, 2026 7:08 am PDT by
In May, Apple agreed to pay $250 million to settle a U.S. class action lawsuit over Siri AI's delayed launch, and eligible iPhone users could receive up to a $95 payout. This week, the California court overseeing the case held a hearing regarding preliminary approval of the settlement, but the judge has not yet issued a ruling. It will likely be at least a few more months before eligible...