Hacker answer: Yes, you can do this right now, as of Xcode 7 Apple allows you to build test apps and upload to your devices for free: http://9to5mac.com/2015/0

Hacker answer: Yes, you can do this right now, as of Xcode 7 Apple allows you to build test apps and upload to your devices for free: http://9to5mac.com/2015/06/10/xcode-7-allows-anyone-to-download-build-and-sideload-ios-apps-for-free/ http://9to5mac.com/2015/06/10/xcode-7-allows-anyone-to-downl... Human answer: Expecting everyday users to download & install a 3GB application, learn how a compiler works, join a developer program, learn how code-signing works, even learn how to plug their phone into a computer when they probably used iCloud instead of iTunes Sync... it's just not practical. It's a usability & support nightmare with a minuscule audience. It's easier just to develop for Android. (And if Google rejects your app, the sideloading story for Android is within the reach of normal users.)