At Bitrise, we’re constantly working to enhance your experience and provide you with powerful tools to streamline your app release process. Today, we’re thrilled to announce some new features and improvements that will take your Release Management to new heights. Let’s dive in and explore what’s in store.
Enhancements to TestFlight: Testing just became a whole lot easier
We’ve listened to your feedback, and we’re thrilled to bring improvements to the TestFlight integration in Release Management. Previously, you could deploy to TestFlight and automate your deployments, but managing TestFlight distribution required additional steps. With our upcoming enhancements, you’ll have more control over TestFlight distribution. You can now specify which tester group and QA testers should have access to a specific version of your app or artifact. Additionally, when external testers are testing your app, Apple typically requires app review before submission. Now, you can handle this entire process seamlessly within Bitrise’s Release Management. Submit your app for review, automatically notify testers, and once approved, testers can start testing. You can even provide specific instructions and specify regions for the testers to focus on.
Add test notes for testers like what to test, or what areas in the app needs a second look.
Automate distributing to external testers when approved by the App Store.
Eliminate manual work with build triggers
Automation is key to efficient workflows, and we understand that there are certain manual tasks that you’d like to automate. That’s why we’re introducing build triggers. You’ll have the ability to define automation triggers based on specific events, such as the completion of a release. For example, you can trigger a build to merge back the release branch when the release is completed, simplifying your version control process.
Seamless App Store Version Number Management: No more mismatches
We’ve addressed a common pain point that users faced with version number mismatch between Apple Connect and Release Management. In the past, you had to log into the App Store and manually update the App Store version number there. However, with our latest changes, we’ve made it effortless for you. Simply click on “Update version number” when a mismatch is found, and the version number will automatically be updated. This ensures consistency and eliminates the need for manual intervention. If you primarily use Release Management for your releases, you won’t encounter this notification again. But if you occasionally use App Store Connect alongside Release Management, this issue is now easily resolved.
Coming soon: Create App Store Releases with Ease
Back in April, we introduced the ability to create a release in Release Management via our API, providing users with greater flexibility and control. However, we understand that using a script step to call the API might add unnecessary complexity. That’s why we’re excited to announce the upcoming release of a dedicated Step, “Create App Store Release,” which will eliminate the need for a script step. Creating app store releases will be even simpler and more streamlined, allowing you to focus on what matters most—shipping your app.
In conclusion
We’re thrilled to bring these upcoming features and improvements to Release Management, further empowering your app release process. Stay tuned for more details and official release announcements. Bitrise is dedicated to providing you with the best tools to streamline your development workflows and enable you to deliver outstanding mobile apps with ease.
If you’re eager to learn more or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our dedicated customer support team. You can also book a demo if you wanted to know more on Release Management.