Distribute on MacOS without code signing?

[ripe scarab]

I'm currently building the beta version of a software and I don't want to deal with setting up and paying for code signing just yet. Is there any way I can distribute the app in beta without code signing?

I've tried just building and uploading the dmg for people to download but when downloaded in that manner, it says the app is damaged and cannot be opened. However, the dmg works just fine prior to uploading, which makes me think it's a code signing issue.

[indigo flax]

I recently had the same issue, and yes, it was related to codesigning. After getting a Developer ID certificate and using it to sign it was all fine.

I'm not sure if there is an alternative way. I assumed it's just Apple's policy to make it incredibly hard to run software that does not have proper signatures