Can I create a compiled macOS application without a paid developer account?

Hi. This may be a dumb question, but I have created a macOS app for a friend that reads in data from some basic ASCII files. I would like to compile a stand alone macOS app just for his use, but I can't seem to figure out if this is possible without signing up for a $100/yr developer account.


I appreciate the help!

Replies

I am going to guess that your issue is with Apple's Gatekeeper - you have always been able to develop and deploy applications for macOS/OS X without the need for a paid developer program. Current system preference options only allow applications from the App Store [and identified developers], but if you trust the source, any application can be opened via the contextual/right-click menu (administrator authorization may be needed).