iPad Certifications

Due to iPad maintenance activities, we discourage the use of iPad apps but if your experiment requires the use of a tablet (i.e. the camera, touch screen interface, etc.) below are the paths for iPad apps.

To develop, distribute and compile iPad apps, the PI has two choices for the development of the Apple application:

1. Enterprise developed app using the Apple Developer Enterprise Program Membership
2. Business to Business (B2B) developed app in the Apple Developer Program

There are differences between the two types of iPad application in terms of maintenance for the applications for use on ISS.

1. Enterprise Applications:
   • This type of developed application require certification renewals.
   • Provisioning Profile:
     • Valid for one year - The provisioning profile is needed in order to operate on an Apple iPad and is renewed on an annual basis from the date of compile.
     • The application will require the source code to be re-compiled to extend the provisioning profile for use in one year increments.
     • This process will need to be completed prior to the expiration of the profile.
     • Current Plan is to update the provisioning profile every 9 month.
     • New provisioning profile will require:
       1. New version number per the NPR (new JF 1704 not needed)
       2. Updated VDD
       3. Updated GCAR
       4. CoC
     • The expiration dates are tracked as a limited life items on the GCAR and in the VDD.
   • In addition to the provisioning profile, the developer will have a Distribution Certificate to renew on a periodic basis.
     • The distribution license is valid for 3 years.
     • It is possible to have multiple licenses, up to two valid certificates at one time.
     • The distribution certificate is valid for three years from when it was issued, or until the Enterprise Developer Program membership expires, whichever comes first.
     • Needed for the development and compiling of the app.
     • The distribution certificate is also tracked as a limited life item in VDD and in the GCAR.
2. Business to Business (B2B) Applications:
   • No annual renewal for the provisioning profile is needed.
   • Standard Apple Developer's license is needed.
   • The application is submitted to Apple similar to an iTunes App Store application but using iTunes Connect.
   • For use on ISS, an Apple Volume Purchasing Program (VPP) account needs to be set up privately between the developer and SSC accounts (Obtain accounts from ROI).
   • Be aware of sensitive data (PII data) – B2B apps are not secured by Apple.
     • Developer might need to include an authentication mechanism within the app.
     • Apple will need to log in and operate the app.
   • Code Review by Apple will be required (Allow up to 2 weeks).

Both types of applications can be uplinked to the ISS using a customized Mobile Device Management (MDM) system that has been created and managed by a NASA contractor in the SSC/OD Division. SSC/OD has the responsibility to upload the application to ISS.