iOS Developer Roadmap
You build for the platform whose users pay for apps. iOS teams are smaller and junior competition thinner than web - indicative 2026 salaries $70-95k US. Swift + SwiftUI is the modern path, and one polished App Store app is worth a portfolio of repos.
By Carl Mills • Last updated • tap any step for guidance and free resources • progress saves in your browser • free printable PDF roadmap poster.
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iOS Developer roadmap FAQ
Do I need a Mac to learn iOS development?
Yes, realistically - Xcode only runs on macOS. A used M1/M2 Mac mini is the budget entry ticket. An iPhone helps but the simulator covers most learning.
SwiftUI or UIKit?
SwiftUI-first in 2026 - new feature work has largely moved there. Learn to read UIKit because mature codebases are full of it, but do not start there.
Is the smaller iOS job market a problem for juniors?
Fewer openings but far fewer credible juniors - a published App Store app puts you in a very short pile. iOS also skews toward product companies and agencies that pay above web-junior rates.
What next once the list is green?
Prove it under pressure: take the free Mock Interview, then check your application signals.
Not sure this is your direction?
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