Understanding Error itms-90035 in Xcode

Xcode is the go-to integrated development environment (IDE) for developers building applications for Apple's ecosystem, including iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. However, developers often encounter various errors when compiling and submitting their applications to the App Store. One such error is itms-90035 . This article provides a comprehensive analysis of this error, delving into its causes, implications, and possible solutions.

What is Error itms-90035?

Error itms-90035 is encountered during the app submission process through Xcode to the App Store or TestFlight. This error is related to the code signing and bundle ID configurations, typically arising when there's an inconsistency or misconfiguration in these settings. It is an "Invalid Bundle" error, indicating that something about the app's bundle doesn't comply with the requirements set by Apple.

Technical Explanation

To understand itms-90035 , let's examine its typical causes:

Bundle Identifier Issues

• Description: The bundle identifier is a unique string that identifies your app. It should be consistent across your code, provisioning profiles, and the entry in the App Store.
• Common Mistakes:
  • Mismatch between the bundle identifier in the Xcode project settings and the App Store listing.
  • Incorrect settings in the Info.plist file where the CFBundleIdentifier key doesn't match the app's current configuration.

Code Signing Problems

• Description: Code signing is the process of digitally signing your app and entitlements. This ensures the app's integrity and authenticity.
• Common Mistakes:
  • The provisioning profile used to sign the app does not match the certificate or is not associated with the bundle identifier.
  • Using an outdated or invalid certificate.

Versioning and Metadata

• Description: Every app must have a clearly defined version, which is used to handle updates.
• Common Mistakes:
  • Version or build numbers not incremented.
  • Mismatch in the version number specified in Xcode and the one submitted to the App Store.

Example Scenario

Consider a scenario where a developer is trying to submit an app update but encounters the error itms-90035 . Here’s a breakdown of how one might go about diagnosing and resolving the issue:

1. Verify Bundle Identifier: Check if the bundle identifier in your Xcode project settings matches the identifier registered with Apple Developer and your App Store listing.
2. Inspect Code Signing:
   • Open the "Target" settings in Xcode, navigate to the "Signing & Capabilities" tab, and ensure the correct provisioning profile and signing certificate are selected.
   • Use Xcode's Product > Clean Build Folder and rebuild the project.
3. Check Version Information:
   • Confirm that the version and build numbers in Xcode match those expected by your TestFlight or App Store Connect listing.
   • These numbers must be sequential and not duplicate previously uploaded builds.

Addressing itms-90035: Step-by-Step

1. Navigate to Project Settings:
   • Open your Xcode project.
   • Click on the project file in the Navigator.
   • Navigate to the "General" tab for your target.
2. Update Bundle Identifier:
   • Verify the Bundle Identifier matches what’s registered at Apple's Developer portal.
   • Correct any discrepancies.
3. Review Code Signing:
   • Ensure automatic code signing is enabled, or manually select the correct provisioning profile.
   • Use updated certificates for the submission process.
4. Validate Information in Info.plist:
   • Ensure there is no mismatch in CFBundleIdentifier .
5. Check App Version and Build:
   • Confirm these are incremented.
   • Update any conflicts between Xcode settings and the App Store Connect metadata.

Final Words

Addressing itms-90035 primarily involves checking and correcting bundle IDs, provisioning profiles, and versioning. It underscores the importance of maintaining harmonization between Xcode project settings, registered identifiers, and App Store Connect configurations.

Summary Table

By following these guidelines and keeping all settings consistent and up-to-date, developers can resolve itms-90035 and ensure a smoother app submission process.