What Is iDevice Pair and Why You Need a Pairing File
If you’re looking to sideload apps, debug iOS, or use advanced tools like SideStore and Feather, iDevice Pair is a must-have. It generates a pairing file, which is crucial for establishing a secure and trusted connection between your computer and your iPhone or iPad.
Without a valid pairing file, apps can’t:
- Install unsigned IPAs
- Perform JIT debugging
- Manage developer or enterprise certificates
This secure handshake protects your data and enables seamless functionality between your iOS device and tools like SideStore, Stikdebug, and Feather.
Requirements Before You Start
Before generating a pairing file using iDevice Pair, make sure you have:
- A USB cable for your iOS device
- iTunes (Windows only)
- iDevice Pair for macOS or Windows
- JitterbugPair for Linux
- Passcode enabled on your iOS device
Generate Pairing File on Windows Using iDevice Pair
Step 1: Install iTunes
Get the correct version of iTunes for your system. This installs the necessary Apple drivers.
Step 2: Download iDevice Pair
Grab the Windows executable from the GitHub releases.
Step 3: Connect iOS Device
- Plug in your device using a USB cable.
- Tap “Trust” and enter your passcode if prompted.
Step 4: Launch and Generate Pairing File
- Open iDevice Pair
- Select your iPhone or iPad
- Click “Generate”
Step 5: Install Pairing File
- Scroll down to “SideStore” section
- Click “Install”
- Look for the green “Success” confirmation
Download Links (Windows)
Use iDevice Pair on macOS to Generate Pairing File
macOS users don’t need iTunes.
- Download iDevice Pair DMG
From GitHub releases - Connect Device
Trust the computer and keep device unlocked. - Generate and Install Pairing File
- Open iDevice Pair
- Click “Generate”
- Then “Install” under the relevant app section
Download Links (macOS)
Generate Pairing File on Linux Using JitterbugPair
If you’re using Linux, the easiest and official method is to use the iDevicePair--linux-aarch64.AppImage file instead of JitterbugPair.
Steps:
- Download AppImage
Go to iDevice Pair GitHub and downloadiDevicePair--linux-aarch64.AppImage.
- Download AppImage
- Make Executable
chmod +x iDevicePair--linux-aarch64.AppImage- Run the App
./iDevicePair--linux-aarch64.AppImage
- Connect Your iOS Device
- Unlock your device and tap “Trust” if prompted.
- Generate Pairing File
Launch the app, select your device, click “Generate”, then “Install” under your preferred tool (e.g., SideStore).
- Connect Your iOS Device
How to Use Pairing File in SideStore, Stikdebug & Feather
Once your pairing file is generated using iDevice Pair, you can use it in two simple ways:
Direct Install (Recommended)
- In iDevice Pair, scroll to the app (SideStore, Stikdebug, or Feather).
- Click “Install” to apply the pairing file directly.
- A green Success message confirms it’s ready to use.
Save & Import Manually (Optional)
- Click “Save to File” to store the pairing file on your computer.
- Open SideStore or Feather and import the
.pairingfile when prompted.
You’re now ready to sideload IPAs or debug without needing a local device transfer.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Always enable a passcode and unlock your iPhone before connecting.
- Tap “Trust This Computer” when prompted on your device.
- Reinstall iTunes on Windows if your device isn’t detected by iDevice Pair.
- On Linux, make sure your user has proper USB permissions and the screen stays unlocked.
- Restart iDevice Pair if it hangs or fails to generate the pairing file.
- Use a reliable USB cable and ensure a secure connection during pairing.
Final Thoughts
Generating a pairing file with iDevice Pair is a simple but powerful way to unlock advanced iOS features like sideloading and app debugging. Whether you’re on Windows, macOS, or Linux — this step-by-step guide ensures you’re on the right track.
If you’re using SideStore for IPA signing, you’ll find our SideStore Signing Tutorial incredibly helpful.
For more tech guides, visit TechyBuff.com — your go-to source for sideloading, Apple tweaks
