TestApp.io makes it easy to install app builds directly from the web portal to your device. Whether you are at your desk or on the go, you can get a build onto your phone in just a few taps.

What This Does

The Install feature lets you take an app build that has been uploaded to the TestApp.io portal and install it directly onto a physical device. This is essential for manual testing, QA review, stakeholder demos, and any situation where you need to run a build on real hardware.

Installing from Desktop (QR Code Method)

When you are working on a desktop or laptop computer, the portal uses a QR code to bridge the gap between your screen and your phone.

  1. Open the TestApp.io portal on your computer and navigate to the app you want to install.
  2. Find the release you want to install. You can access it from two places:
    • Release list: Click the Actions menu dropdown on the release row, then select Install.
    • Release detail page: Open the release and click the Install button.
  3. A QR code appears on your screen.
  4. Open your phone's camera and scan the QR code.
  5. The link opens in the TestApp.io mobile app on your phone.
  6. The build installs automatically on your device.

The entire process takes just a few seconds from scan to install.

Installing from Mobile Browser

If you are already browsing the portal on your phone, you can skip the QR code step entirely.

  1. Open the release page in your phone's mobile browser.
  2. Tap Install on Device.
  3. The TestApp.io mobile app opens automatically.
  4. The build installs directly to your device.

This is the fastest path when you are already on your phone — one tap and the build starts installing.

Requirements

To install builds from the portal, you need:

  • TestApp.io mobile app installed on your device. The mobile app handles the actual installation of builds onto your phone. Without it, the QR code and Install on Device links will not work.
  • Access to the app in the TestApp.io portal. You must be a member of the team or have been granted access to the app.

Where to Find the Install Option

Here is a quick reference for where the Install action is available:

  • Release list page: Each release row has an Actions dropdown menu. Click it and select Install.
  • Release detail page: The Install button is prominently displayed on the page.

Both paths lead to the same result — choose whichever is more convenient based on where you are in the portal.

Tips

  • QR codes in meetings: The QR code method is perfect for team meetings and demos. Share your screen with the portal open, click Install, and everyone in the room can scan the QR code to get the build on their own device instantly.
  • Bookmark release pages: If you frequently test the same app, bookmark the release list page in your mobile browser for quick access to the latest builds.
  • Keep the mobile app updated: Make sure you are running the latest version of the TestApp.io mobile app for the best installation experience.

Troubleshooting

  • The QR code does not open the app: Make sure the TestApp.io mobile app is installed on your device. If it is installed but the link still does not open it, try updating the app to the latest version.
  • Install on Device button not working: Ensure you are accessing the portal from a mobile browser on the device where you want to install the build.

Need help? Contact us and we'll get back to you shortly.