#The Best Way To Perform AR Mirror

24 messages · Page 1 of 1 (latest)

neon flame
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Hi all,

I'm currently exploring the best way to implement an AR mirror using Snapchat's CameraKit iOS SDK. I'm using the official sample project provided in the Mirrors guide (https://developers.snap.com/camera-kit/integrate-sdk/ios/guides/mirrors), and the app already runs smoothly on:

  • iOS Simulator
  • Physical iPhone device
  • My Mac (Designed for iPad) – tested on M1 Mac

Now, I'm considering how to deliver this AR mirror experience in the most seamless way possible, even for non-technical users.

My main question:
What is the best way to deploy an AR mirror app built with CameraKit so that it runs standalone on a Mac with Apple Silicon — without requiring Xcode?

Specifically:
Is it possible to build and export this Xcode project as a .app that runs directly on macOS (Catalyst-style) like a native Mac app?
Are there best practices for packaging or signing Catalyst apps for production or offline installation?
For those with experience using CameraKit for AR mirrors: what’s the most effective and user-friendly setup you’ve implemented or seen in real-world deployments?

My goal is to make the AR mirror available in a plug-and-play pn Mac mini or iMac, without needing to install via Xcode or run through a terminal.

Any advice, deployment tips, or pitfalls to avoid would be greatly appreciated!

willow kraken
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✅ 1. Yes, You Can Build a Standalone macOS App with

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CameraKit via Catalyst

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Snap's CameraKit for iOS is officially compatible with Mac Catalyst, meaning you can build once for iOS and

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run it natively on macOS (especially Apple Silicon).

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Steps:

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In Xcode, go to:

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Target → General → Deployment Info → Supported Destinations

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✅ Enable Mac (Designed for iPad) (Catalyst).

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Under Build Settings, search for “Supported Platforms” and make sure macosx is included if needed.

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✅ 2. Build a .app That Runs Without Xcode

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Build the .app

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Product → Archive (select Any Mac (Mac Catalyst)).

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Use "Distribute App" in the Organizer.

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Choose "Copy App" or "Developer ID" for signing options.

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Options for Distribution:

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a) Offline (Plug-and-Play Setup)

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For deploying to a Mac Mini or iMac:

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Copy the .app bundle to the Applications folder or auto-launch from login.

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You can optionally make it open in full screen via a simple launch agent or script.

neon flame
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Awesome, thanks @willow kraken

one more question, does my Apple account have to be registered as an Apple Developer Program?

neon geyser
neon flame
late lion
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Needs to register to sign in an would reccomd, Flight IPA