Using AI Coding Assistants to Develop Software for Apple iOS

Many developers, particularly front-end, who have adopted AI coding tools to help them code faster, are frustrated that they can’t do so when working on software for iOS mobile app development because there’s no AI coding extension for Apple’s IDE, XCode. GitHub Copilot, which claims to reduce task completion time by 55%, doesn’t integrate with XCode like it does with most other common IDEs, meaning that developers have to copy and paste their tasks into external tools before copying and pasting back into XCode. Not only is this frustrating and time-consuming, but it means that the AI lacks context and therefore produces poor results.

However, there is one tool now available that enables you to optimize your iOS software development lifecycle: Fine.

Using Fine for AI-Powered Swift Software Development

Unlike Cursor and GitHub Copilot, Fine is removed from the IDE. According to Fine’s Founders, they don’t believe the IDE as we know it today will be the primary way developers work in the future. Therefore, they built Fine to be an independent AI coding tool that works for iOS and all other operating systems.

Fine’s platform is cloud-based and accessed via the browser, whether mobile or desktop. It integrates with your codebase and development tech stack (GitHub, Linear, etc.) and takes all the information to create a Knowledge Graph that allows it to perform development tasks on its own, with high-accuracy output.

Give Fine a task, and it works asynchronously and independently to get the task done. For example:

• Here is a Linear issue with a new feature request. How should I go about developing this? Build a design plan and then write the first iteration.
• Take all new PRs, analyze them, review them, test them, and send me a Slack notification with your comments and suggestions.
• Generate XCTest cases for automated testing in Swift.

The Role of Swift in iOS Development with AI Coding Tools

Swift, Apple’s primary programming language for iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS development, is fully supported by Fine. Whether you’re working on a new feature, refactoring existing code, or creating unit tests, you can rely on Fine to manage these tasks with a high degree of accuracy, ensuring that your Swift code adheres to best practices and Apple’s guidelines.

Using Fine to assist with your iOS software development can save hours of work, helping you become more efficient. Give Fine a task, let it code, and commit a change to GitHub with a PR for you to review. It’s easy, efficient, and makes your workday more enjoyable.

Key Benefits of Using Fine for iOS Development

• Time-Saving: Automate repetitive coding tasks and focus on what matters most.
• High Accuracy: Fine ensures your Swift code adheres to Apple’s guidelines and best practices.
• Integration: Seamlessly integrates with your development tools, enhancing your overall workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Fine integrate with XCode?
A: Fine does not integrate directly with XCode. Instead, it operates independently from the IDE, offering flexibility and efficiency across different development environments, including iOS.

Q: How does Fine handle Swift programming tasks?
A: Fine supports Swift, Apple’s primary programming language, by managing tasks such as feature development, code refactoring, and unit testing with high accuracy.

Q: Can I use Fine with other operating systems?
A: Yes, Fine is designed to work with all operating systems, making it a versatile tool for developers working on various platforms.

Try Fine now, free for 7 days, and experience how it can streamline your iOS app development process.