FileHint
JAEN

.ipa

High risk

iOS App Store Package

The distribution package for iOS apps. A ZIP containing the `.app` bundle, metadata, and a provisioning profile.

MIME types

  • application/octet-stream

Category

executable

What opens this file

  • Xcode
  • AltStore
  • Sideloadly
  • 3uTools

How to open by OS

Windows

  • iTunes (12.6.x and older), Sideloadly, 3uTools.

Mac

  • Xcode, Apple Configurator, Sideloadly.

Linux

  • libimobiledevice tooling.

Ios

  • Installed through TestFlight or sideloading.

Android

  • Cannot run.

Safety notes

  • IPAs sourced outside the App Store can be malicious even if resigned. Modified builds that exfiltrate data are common in piracy circles.
  • Free-tier Apple Developer provisioning expires every 7 days, after which the app refuses to launch.

Common mistakes

  • Unzipping and modifying an IPA invalidates the signature and breaks execution.
  • Confusing TestFlight builds with App Store builds — pick the right configuration for the distribution channel.

Related extensions

References