# XcodeBuildMCP (iOS)

This page focuses on MCP-based Xcode workflows and the XcodeBuildMCP setup.

## What XcodeBuildMCP Is (Plain Language)
+XcodeBuildMCP can run build and test tasks without you switching into Xcode for every step. This reduces context switching and makes workflows repeatable.
+
+Think of it as a remote control for Xcode build actions. Instead of clicking around in Xcode, you ask the assistant to run the action and report the result.
+
+Common uses include:
+- Run a build for a target or scheme
+- Run tests and return failures
+- Capture build output so the assistant can summarize errors
+
+### Example Requests
+- "Use XcodeBuildMCP to build the app and summarize any errors."
+- "Run tests with XcodeBuildMCP and list the failing tests."
+- "Build with XcodeBuildMCP and extract the first error message."
+
+## Xcode 26.3 MCP Setup (Detailed)
+These steps reflect a common setup as of February 2026. Wording may vary slightly in release candidates.
+
+### Prerequisites
+- Xcode 26.3 (RC or full release), opened at least once with your project
+- VS Code installed (stable or Insiders)
+- GitHub Copilot extension installed and signed in
+- Node.js and npm installed (for XcodeBuildMCP)
+
+### Step 1: Enable Xcode MCP Server
+1. Open Xcode.
+2. Go to Settings.
+3. Open the Intelligence tab.
+4. Find the Model Context Protocol section.
+5. Toggle on Xcode Tools (or Allow external connections).
+
+### Step 2: Install And Configure XcodeBuildMCP (Recommended Bridge)
+Install:
+
+```bash
+npm install -g xcodebuildmcp@latest
+```
+
+Add to VS Code (create or edit .vscode/mcp.json):
+
+```json
+{
+  "servers": {
+    "XcodeBuildMCP": {
+      "command": "npx",
+      "args": ["-y", "xcodebuildmcp@latest", "mcp"]
+    }
+  }
+}
+```
+
+Restart VS Code or reload the window. Copilot should discover the tools.
+
+### Step 3: Optional Native Xcode MCP Bridge
+Xcode 26.3 includes a native MCP bridge. This exposes Xcode tools directly.
+
+Add to VS Code:
+
+```json
+{
+  "servers": {
+    "XcodeNative": {
+      "command": "xcrun",
+      "args": ["mcpbridge"]
+    }
+  }
+}
+```
+
+### Using MCP In VS Code With Copilot
+1. Open your iOS project in VS Code.
+2. Use Copilot Chat in agent mode for multi-step tasks.
+3. MCP tools appear as slash commands once discovered.
+
+Example:
+"Use XcodeBuildMCP to build and summarize errors. Then suggest fixes."
+
+### Tips And Caveats
+- Xcode must be running (or launchable) for MCP tools to respond.
+- Native Xcode MCP is often best for previews.
+- XcodeBuildMCP is often best for heavy builds and automation.
+
+### Install And Setup (Official)
+Follow the official instructions: https://github.com/getsentry/XcodeBuildMCP
+
+### References
+- https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/02/xcode-26-point-3-unlocks-the-power-of-agentic-coding/
+- https://github.com/cameroncooke/XcodeBuildMCP
+- https://github.com/getsentry/XcodeBuildMCP
+- https://code.visualstudio.com/docs/copilot/customization/mcp-servers
+
+## Xcode 26.3 And MCP Integration
+Apple announced that Xcode 26.3 exposes Xcode capabilities through the Model Context Protocol (MCP), which enables compatible agents and tools to interact with Xcode features directly.
+
+### What This Means (Plain Language)
+- Xcode can be controlled by MCP-enabled tools.
+- Agents can access more of Xcode's capabilities without you manually clicking through the UI.
+
+### Example Workflow
+1. You ask an agent to build the project.
+2. The agent uses MCP to run the build inside Xcode.
+3. The agent summarizes errors and suggests fixes.
+
+### Source
+https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/02/xcode-26-point-3-unlocks-the-power-of-agentic-coding/