Often, when developing an application or website, it is necessary to test the operation of the product on specific gadgets. Some people are simply interested in seeing how another operating system functions, but there is no such physical possibility. In such cases, emulators come to the rescue. This article discusses iOS emulators for Windows 7, 8, 10.
Criterias of choice
An emulator is a special program that allows you to run software that does not fit the existing architecture in an artificially created necessary software environment. In this case, the unsuitable software is the iOS operating system, which cannot be installed on a computer or laptop. Thanks to the emulator, it is possible to run Apple's mobile OS and applications on it without using an iPhone or iPad.
The choice of such programs is large, because each of them tries to offer maximum convenience and the widest functionality. The main criteria when choosing an emulator include:
- OS version support. Not all emulators run different versions of the system. In practice, it may be necessary to have several versions of the utility to check different systems.
- license. It’s simple: the program is paid or free. Some support both options, but they have feature limitations that force users to purchase the paid version. But this does not mean that the initially free version is worse than another program from another developer.
TOP 6 best iOS emulators
Below is the top most popular iOS emulation software.
Short review
This program is the most popular among similar ones. It conveys the appearance of the system on the iPad as realistically as possible. The key feature of the utility is its focus on the typical user. Unlike many other emulators, it has simple settings and looks like the Android emulator - Bluestacks.
iPadian has two licenses. The difference between the paid version and the free version is the absence of advertising blocks and prompts for working with the application center.
The main functions of the program include:
- maximum imitation of the OS. The user has access to parameterization and appearance of the mobile system. It is possible to create a new Apple ID and use iOS in the same way as on a typical gadget;
- access to the AppStore. It is possible to visit the application store and install the desired program that is compatible with the current version of the platform.
I've been using iPadian 2 for several months. All applications work fine, the system does not freeze. It can handle simple games like AngryBirds or CuttheRope without any problems. I recommend it to those who want to test iOS on a computer desktop.
Advantages
- Identity with real iOS;
- iOS 10 and 11 support;
- the ability to easily update the platform.
Flaws
- a small number of available software;
Air iPhone Emulator
Compact iOS emulation program for desktop PCs. Externally it appears as an image of an iPhone. The buttons on the virtual display can be used to control the “gadget”. The advantages of the utility include complete similarity with iOS 9. Due to the atypical design of the program, a realistic feeling of operating the customizing OS is created.
Main features of Air iPhone Emulator:
- the ability to use popular applications for communication and games. Similar to the previous software, the Air iPhone redesigns existing apps to run on a computer;
- full functionality of calls in instant messengers. It is possible to manage iCloud contacts;
- Taps and gestures are similar to a real iPhone. A mouse is used to emulate finger movement.
I liked the creative idea of making the program screen look like an iPhone. Convenient to use with other Windows applications. The system does not freeze even if you launch games and simultaneously download something from the Internet.
Advantages
- unusual but simple interface;
- free license;
- Gesture support.
Flaws
- limited number of launched applications;
- The two latest versions of iOS are not supported;
- lack of Russian localization.
Xamarin Testflight
This is a complete program for creating applications on iOS. Swift is the main programming language, and the software can be tested in real time. This is done by the integrated emulator. Having opened the virtual gadget, you can check the functionality of the program being developed, as well as go to the desktop or AppStore (after logging in to your Apple ID).
Main features of Xamarin Testflight:
- developer support. Updates do not stop coming to the program;
- emulation only versions of iOS 8 and later.
I installed a trial version of Xamarin for writing university programs. I liked the design of the code and the hints, as well as the ability to open the iPhone emulator. At first, for a long time I simply flipped through the windows of the system and downloaded various programs from the store. I recommend it for both programmers and ordinary users.
Flaws
- not an easy interface for beginners;
- paid license;
- large disk space (from 3-4 GB).
Another software development tool for iOS. Its effectiveness lies in the choice of device for emulation - iPhone and iPad. You can download the full version or a trial version with limited capabilities. The latter contains blocks with advertising and you cannot use custom libraries. If you just want to test the mobile platform, these restrictions will not prevent you from doing so.
Not a bad utility. I couldn’t use it to install programs, but this is one of the few emulators with which you can test new firmware without installing it on your phone.
Advantages
- user-friendly interface;
- a special button to open the emulator window;
- presence of Russian localization;
- support iOS 11 and later.
Flaws
- You cannot install third-party software;
- using a large amount of RAM;
- The trial version lasts 30 days.
MobiOne Studio
A simple environment for creating applications for Apple devices. At the moment, the project is officially closed, which is why no new updates are being released. The program features include quick installation and a free license.
After launching MobiOne Studio, an image of an iPhone will appear in the main window, with programming tools located to the left and right of it. The main interaction with the emulated iOS occurs using the mouse. Supports the eighth version of the platform.
A simple program. I installed it and looked at the iPhone interface. All basic functions work, only new firmware cannot be installed. Doesn't work in the App Store.
