IPAIPA vs APK — the practical differences
Both are ZIP-based app packages; the differences are in what's inside and how strictly the OS controls installation.
| IPA (iOS) | APK (Android) | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | iPhone / iPad | Android devices |
| Code | Compiled ARM binary in .app bundle | DEX bytecode + native libs |
| Manifest | Info.plist | AndroidManifest.xml |
| Sideloading | Restricted — signing rules apply | Allowed with one setting |
| Signing for testing | Ad-hoc (UDID) / enterprise | Any debug/release key |
| Install from a link | OTA via manifest (HTTPS) | Direct download & open |
What this means for testing
Android: share the APK, tester opens it, allows unknown apps, installs. iOS: the build must be signed for the tester's device, then a link installs it over the air. IPALinked handles both formats with the same drag-and-drop.
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