How to Download IPA Files on Windows and macOS

This step-by-step guide explains how to download ipa files on Windows and macOS. It covers the required setup, the main actions, and the checks that help prevent common problems.

ITunes will not transfer app files to your computer when your phone is backed up. But Apple still lets you download apps from the iTunes Store. When you download an app from iTunes on your computer, you basically download IPA files. This file can be transferred or installed right on your device.

How to Download the IPA File

Start by opening iTunes. Select inside the search bar at the top right. Move the search tab from "In Library" to "Store".

Search for the app you want to download the IPA file. Results will be downloaded from the App Store. You will see apps for both iPad and iPhone as well as iMessage apps. Select the app you want to download the IPA file. You can select 'Get' from the search results or visit the app's page and select 'Get' there.

Log in to your Apple ID when prompted. You should use the same Apple ID that your iPhone has registered. ITunes will start downloading the files. You can see the download progress by clicking the small arrow button next to iTunes status bar. When the download process is completed, the 'Get' app page will be changed to 'Downloaded'. However, iTunes won't tell you when it finishes downloading.

Determine the Location of the IPA File on the Computer

On a Windows computer, move to the following location in File Explorer, you will find the IPA file here. These files will be named after the app you downloaded.

 C: UsersUserNameMusiciTunesiTunes MediaMobile Applications 

On a Mac, scroll to the following location to find IPA files.

 ~ / Music / iTunes / Mobile Applications / 

That's all you need to do. If these IPA files are downloaded and stored on the screen, you can move them elsewhere. Remember that an IPA file is not the same as an IPSW file. IPA file is just an app. If you lose it, not a big deal. However, the IPSW file on the other hand is a backup of your iPhone or iPad. You certainly won't want to mislead these files.