CHAPTER 2: Getting Started16
Note that Apple typically only supports the current and previous Mac OS X versions for iOS and
Mac OS X development. Right now these are Mac OS X 10.7 Lion and Mac OS X 10.8 Mountain
Lion, with development on Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard still an option albeit not with the latest
features. Be prepared to update your Mac to a newer Mac OS X version frequently, typically
once every 12 to 24 months. Note that there’s always the option to install Mac OS X separately
to an external hard drive if for some reason you don’t want to or can’t update your Mac’s
operating system.
If you’re running an older Mac computer please consult the Max OS X Technical Specifications
web site (www.apple.com/macosx/specs.html) to learn whether your Mac meets the system
requirements and how to purchase and upgrade to the latest Mac OS X version.
Register as an iOS Developer
If you haven’t already done so, you might want to register yourself as an iOS developer with
Apple. Access to the iOS Developer Program costs $99 per year. If you plan to submit Mac
OS X apps to the Mac App Store, you’ll also have to register as a Mac OS X developer, for an
additional $99 per year.
You can register as an iOS developer at http://developer.apple.com/programs/ios.
To register as a Mac OS X developer, go to http://developer.apple.com/programs/mac.
Strictly speaking you do not need to register as a developer right away. You can also download
Xcode for free and take your first steps with the iOS Simulator.
But as a registered developer you get additional benefits. For example, you have access to
the iOS Developer Portal where you can set up your development devices and provisioning
profiles to deploy your app to one or more iOS devices. You also get access to iTunes Connect
where you can manage your contracts, manage and submit your apps, and review financial
reports.
In addition, you’ll be offered beta versions, sometimes also called preview versions, of Apple
software. You should generally refrain from using Apple beta software however. I know it’s
cool to have access to it and tempting to use the latest software as part of an exclusive
club. But trust me on this: you’ll easily run into compatibility issues that no one can help you
with because the Apple beta software can not be publicly discussed. I strictly refrain from
using Apple beta versions because even minor incompatibilities can be huge productivity
killers.
Tip If you do want to try out Apple beta software, be sure to install it separately so that you can switch
back to the official version at any time. This is specifically important if you plan to install a beta Mac OS X
version, because it’s very possible that either cocos2d or any of the other tools and libraries you’re using
has severe compatibility issues with the beta OS. Don’t allow the beta OS to permanently replace your
current OS, or you’ll be stuck and alone with any issues you may encounter. Install Mac OS beta versions
on a separate (external) hard drive instead and use the System Preferences Startup Disk tool to switch
between startup disks.