SwiftUI made simple: beginner’s guide to building an iPhone app

Install Xcode, design UI with SwiftUI, connect APIs, test, and publish to the App Store—step-by-step for beginners.

Start building an iPhone app with SwiftUI, even as a beginner.

Setup

1. Install Xcode from the App Store.
2. Create a new SwiftUI project and run on the simulator.

Build the UI

• Compose screens with stacks, lists, and navigation.
• Handle state with @State and @ObservedObject.
• Add forms, validation, and simple animations.

Connect data

• Fetch JSON from an API using URLSession.
• Decode with Codable and display in lists and detail views.
• Cache simple data with AppStorage or local files.

Testing

• Unit tests for view models and logic.
• UI tests for main user journeys.

Prepare for App Store

• Set app icons, launch screen, and bundle IDs.
• Configure signing, provisioning, and app capabilities.
• Add privacy manifest and required usage descriptions.

Publish

1. Create an App Store Connect record.
2. Archive and upload the build via Xcode.
3. Fill in store listing, screenshots, and pricing.
4. Submit for review and release.

With SwiftUI and modern tooling, you can go from zero to App Store release with a clear, repeatable workflow.