Introduction
Nowadays, we all are familiar with Xamarin. It is rapidly changing and reshaping software houses and developers' minds. Xamarin changes the way we develop mobile apps. If you are not familiar with Xamarin and its approaches, then let’s start the discussion by saying that Xamarin is used to build cross platform apps. We can build apps for iOS, Android, and Windows phone by just writing a C# code and XAML. Xamarin is also used to build native apps. We can also separately develop apps of each platform.
Problem
Now, let's discuss another side of Xamarin. If you are a Windows user and want to develop mobile apps using Xamarin, you can easily test and develop Android apps but testing is not a simple process for iOS on Windows PC. You have to attach a Mac with your PC and both devices must have installed the same version of Xamarin in order to test iOS app. This is sometimes very hectic work to be done. But Xamarin Live Player can resolve such problem easily.
Solution by Xamarin Live Player
Xamarin Live Player came into being and saved our lives. Now, the process that needs about 7 – 8 minutes for iOS testing is now done within a minute.
Working
So, how does the Player work?
Xamarin Live Player app is available for both, Android and iOS. You can get the app from store. Follow the steps-
- Run your project through Live Player.
- Scan QR code from mobile. Visual Studio and device are now connected.
- Run it through connected device.
![xamarin]()
Installation
- Download and install Xamarin Live Player app on your phone.
- Download Visual Studio 2017 Preview 15.3 with latest updates.
- Install Xamarin Updater.
- Go to Visual Studio Tools -> Extensions and Updates -> Install all Xamarin Updates.
![xamarin]()
- Re-launch Visual Studio
Running Live Player for first time?
- Open Visual Studio 2017 Preview.
- Go to Tools > Options > Xamarin > Other > Check Xamarin Live Player.
- Now it is available for use.
![xamarin]()
Links
Advantages of Live Player
- You can test both Android and iOS apps from Live Player.
- Time savor: Now, iOS testing from Windows PC is not hectic task.
- No Mac is needed for testing.
Note
Xamarin Live Player is in its initial stage and only one version is available so far. So, there is a possibility that you can face some problems by using the player. Don’t be angry but just report them on Xamarin forums and your problems will be solved in future updates.