Apple could be developing a version of Xcode that runs on iPads, according to a new rumor circulating this week. The capability has been linked to the release of iOS 14 by rising Apple leaker Jon Prosser, and if true, it would enable full-scale app development to take place on Apple's mobile devices for the first time.
Developers use Xcode to create apps for iOS, watchOS, tvOS, and macOS. However, Xcode is a complex app and has only ever been available on Mac. While Apple offers the Swift Playgrounds app for learning about coding on mobile, it has never indicated that it has any plans to bring Xcode to iPad.
But according to a tweet posted on Monday by Prosser, Xcode "is present on iOS/iPadOS 14," the implications of which are "huge" because it "opens the door for 'Pro' applications to come to iPad."
Responding to Prosser's tweet, iOS developer and MacRumors writer Steve Moser noted that a hidden Xcode Preview app is present in iOS 13 that acts as a companion app for showing layout previews on device from the main Xcode Mac app. However, Prosser appears to be referring to the existence of a native full-fat version of Xcode for iPad.
I’m not gonna say that Final Cut is coming to iPad... But XCode is present on iOS / iPad OS 14. 👀 The implications there are HUGE. Opens the door for “Pro” applications to come to iPad. I mentioned this last week on a live stream, but figured it was worth the tweet 🤷🏼♂️ — Jon Prosser (@jon_prosser) April 20, 2020
Such a step would be a big undertaking for Apple, requiring an overhaul of Xcode's interface to take advantage of the iPad's primarily touch-based operating system. If successful though, it could make full-scale app development a possibility for mobile users who don't have a Mac.
Hopefully we'll hear more at this year's virtual Worldwide Developers Conference, where Apple will reveal annual updates to all of its operating systems, including its plans for iOS 14 and iPadOS 14.
