Distribute a beta app for Mac with a Network Extension

Question

Created Oct ’20

Replies 5

Boosts 0

Participants 3

I want to release a beta version for my Mac app, but since it contains a Network Extension (Packet Tunnel Provider), I can't just send a DMG to the testers.
I know there are two options here:

Change the app to be a System Extension. I do not want to do that.
Register the testers devices (UUID) and send them the app.

Is there a better way to distribute this beta version?

Boost

Answer 1

Systems Engineer OP

Apple

Oct ’20

Change the app to be a System Extension. I do not want to do that.

Why?

What is the release distribution method, Developer ID?

Matt Eaton
DTS Engineering, CoreOS
meaton3@apple.com

0

Answer 2

roee84 OP

Oct ’20

Because at the moment the app is a Network Extension, I didn't convert it yet.
It's on the road map, but it might take some time.

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Answer 3

roee84 OP

Oct ’20

What is the release distribution method, Developer ID?
Since it's a beta for two specific customers, the list method doesn't matter, as long as it's going to work on their Macs.

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Answer 4

Systems Engineer OP

Apple

Oct ’20

Since it's a beta for two specific customers, the list method doesn't matter, as long as it's going to work on their Macs.

Thank you for the info. I did see that you have TestFlight as a tag in your question so I did want to mention that TestFlight is not available for MacOS applications. You could go the Developer ID / Notarization route and create a beta copy that you are distributing to a small subsection of you user base.

Matt Eaton
DTS Engineering, CoreOS
meaton3@apple.com

0

Answer 5

adrianthomas OP

Oct ’20

Are NetworkExtensions now available for plain DeveloperID signing? Previously they were MAS-only afaik, which is perhaps why roee84 is assuming it will need to be wrapped inside a System Extension.

We heard rumours Network Extensions would be opted into Developer ID signing a few years back but nothing ever materialised…

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