How can I download identities without Xcode crashing?

Question

I am working on my first app submission, and at present Xcode's Organizer tab offers "Validate..." and "Distribute..." buttons, but not "Submit..."

When I go to click Validate, it indicates a probable cause: I do not have any (downloaded) signing identities to sign with. I am offered the option to install an identity, but when I select the (one) available identity and click "Choose", Xcode crashes.

Are there any workarounds for this, or things where there might be a wire crossed on my end? Is there a more stable release of Xcode (I'm using 5.0, 5A1413)?

Thanks,

Answer 1

You'll want to go into the iOS Dev Center and create a Distribution provisioning profile. Once that's created and downloaded, it should get rid of the 'No signing identities' issue, which will prevent the crash. (I've had XCode crash there for me as well when I didn't have that set up)

Also, you'll actually never see a 'Submit' button; 'Distribute' does everything you need.

Answer 2

High-level concept:

Xcode 5 has a validation and a distribution button on the Organizer window > Archives Tab. Occasionally when trying to access this area or sometimes when attempting to choose a signing identity or provisioning profile (under Preferences > Accounts) one will encounter an error. These errors are typically related to an invalid date associated with a certificate. The certificate might be associated with the provisioning profile or the signing identity.

To fix this type of error one should try the following:

1. Login to the Developer Portal
2. Access your Certificates depending on type of app being submitted (iOS, Mac, Safari extension)
3. Make sure that you have a valid distribution certificate (under Production)
4. Make sure your App-ID is configured (consider using a wildcard)
5. Make sure your provisioning profile (distribution) is set and that it is using a valid certificate
6. Make sure the expiration dates are correct on each certificate you are using
7. Download your certificate and provisioning profile to your desktop (double-click to install)
8. Make sure you select the correct profile (Build Settings > Search Profile.. > Edit Provisioning Profile)
9. Make sure your code signing identity is set to your automatic distribution for your release code (Build Settings > Search Code Signing Identity > Edit Release Setting to Automatic - [iOS] Distribution)

What to do next:

Xcode should pick up the changes at this point so try your validation again (Organizer > Archives)... Assuming you are past validation you can distribute as needed. If any problems at this point open Spotlight > Search for Keychain > Evaluate the Certificates in your Keychain on your development environment to ensure that you have the correct certificates installed. If you have questions or issues beyond this, please consider reviewing the official app distribution guide. If this answer fits your use-case please consider accepting so that other users may find the proper solution.