If you're part of the Apple Enterprise developer program, you know how tricky it is to maintain the connection between your CI/CD and App Store Connect. It used to rely on your Apple ID and password. This often led to unexpected issues and disruptions in your workflow. But as of the latter half of 2024, with the official Apple Enterprise Program API (App Store Connect), you have a reliable way to establish and maintain that connection. It's designed to seamlessly integrate with your development process, ensuring you stay on track without surprises. Say goodbye to the frustration of navigating sudden changes and hello to a more streamlined, efficient way of working.
Enterprise API authentication is now possible in Bitrise
If you’re using an Apple Enterprise development account, it’s now possible in Bitrise to manage your authentication via API key (instead of storing authentication details as Secrets). This means that all Bitrise users developing for iOS now have the ability to authenticate via API exclusively if they wish.
Why use the Apple API authentication method?
Switching to API key-based authentication will elevate the reliability, security, and maintenance of your app management and distribution within the Apple ecosystem. Let's examine this further.
- Reliability and future-proofing: The API key authentication provides a stable connection that will withstand Apple’s updates.
- Enhanced security: Robust authentication protects your code and projects.
- Hassle-free maintenance: No more re-authorization every 30 days (unlike the Apple ID-based auth). This will allow you to focus on your craft rather than administrative tasks.
Updating your Bitrise Apple authentication method
If you’re a developer involved in code signing for Apple platforms without manually managing certificates and provisioning profiles, it's time to upgrade your toolkit. Specifically, action is required for those who:
- Are members of the Apple Enterprise program or have not yet transitioned to API-key authentication.
- Utilize the "Apple service connection" with an Apple ID rather than an API key.
What you will need to do
Before you get started making the switch, we recommend that you leave your Apple ID authentication intact on Bitrise. This is simply to ensure that you can quickly rollback in case you need to for any reason.
You can set up your API authentication by following this guide from our dev center.
By embracing the power of the Apple Enterprise API, you're not just upgrading tools; you're empowering your development process with the stability and security needed to bring your digital masterpieces to life. Let Bitrise be the canvas where your ideas flourish, unhindered by the constraints of outdated methods.
