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Version: 19.x

Debugging in Xcode During Detox Tests

Debugging in Xcode During Detox Tests​

This is mostly useful for investigating weird crashes or when contributing to Detox itself. This workflow isn’t standard. Don’t use it unless you have a good reason.

Add Detox Framework to Your Project​

  • Go to node_modules/detox and extract Detox-ios-src.tbz
  • Drag Detox-ios-src/Detox.xcodeproj into your Xcode project
  • Go to your project settings -> General and add Detox.framework to Frameworks, Libraries, and Embedded Content (make sure Embed & Sign is selected under Embed)

NOTE: Apps should not be submitted to the App Store with the Detox framework linked. Follow this guide only to debug Detox issues in your project. Once finished, make sure to remove Detox.framework from your project.

Add an ios.none Configuration to Detox Section​

Edit your Detox configuration to add the following configuration:

"ios.none": {
  "binaryPath": "ios",
  "type": "ios.none",
  "device": {
    "type": "iPhone 12 Pro Max"
  },
  "session": {
    "server": "ws://localhost:8099",
    "sessionId": <your app’s bundle identifier>
  }
}

Note: This configuration will not handle simulator and application lifecycle, they will have to be performed manually (e.g. running your application from Xcode).

Run Detox Server Manually​

Run the following command in your project root directory:

detox run-server

Run Your Application From Xcode​

Run your application from Xcode as you normally do.

Note: Before running, place breakpoints in places where you wish to debug.

Run Detox Tests​

Run the following command in your project root directory:

detox test --configuration ios.none

Note: Calls to device.launchApp() may fail as this API is unavailable when using ios.none configuration types. Instead, use it.only to run specific tests and restart your app from Xcode.