Frequently asked questions
What is buildtree?
buildtree is a mobile build distribution service. You upload an Android .apk or an iOS .ipa, and buildtree gives it an install link and a QR code that testers, stakeholders or friends open on their phone to install the app. Docs overview
How do I share an Android APK with testers or friends?
Upload the .apk to buildtree from the dashboard, the CLI (npx @buildtree/cli upload app.apk --env dev) or an AI agent, then send the install link or QR code. The tester opens it on their phone and taps Install on Android. Step-by-step guide
How do I share an iOS app without TestFlight?
Use ad-hoc distribution: collect each tester's device ID with buildtree's registration link, add the devices to your provisioning profile in the Apple Developer portal, rebuild the .ipa and upload it. Testers then install from the link in Safari. iOS distribution
Does buildtree build my app?
No. buildtree only distributes builds. You build locally, in your CI, with eas build --local, Fastlane or Xcode, and upload the resulting file. The CLI can run your own build command and upload in one step with buildtree publish.
Which frameworks does buildtree support?
Any framework that produces an .apk or .ipa: Expo, React Native, Flutter, Kotlin or Java Android apps, and Swift or Objective-C iOS apps. Framework guides
Is buildtree free?
Yes, the Free plan includes 1 project, 5 GB of storage, 30-day build retention, public install links and QR codes, and tester feedback. Paid plans start at $9 a month for more projects, storage, retention and private links. Pricing
Do testers need an account to install?
No, not on public projects: anyone with the link can install. On private projects the tester enters their email and gets a one-time link, and only addresses you allowed can install. Private install links
How do testers send feedback?
Every install page has a Send feedback button. Testers choose Bug, Works or Suggestion, write a note and attach up to three screenshots. You see it on the build in the dashboard and get an email. Tester feedback
Can I use buildtree from Claude Code, Codex or Cursor?
Yes. Add the buildtree MCP server with npx -y @buildtree/mcp and your agent can log in, configure the build, upload it and return the install link and QR code, and read tester feedback. AI agents (MCP)
Is buildtree an App Center alternative?
For distribution, yes: Microsoft retired App Center on March 31, 2025, and buildtree covers uploading builds, install links, QR codes, private tester access and iOS device registration. It does not do crash reporting or analytics. Compare tools
How is buildtree different from TestFlight or Firebase App Distribution?
buildtree covers Android and iOS with one link per build, needs no tester app or review, organizes builds by branch and environment, and works from an AI agent. TestFlight is Apple-only and Firebase App Distribution sends invitations per tester. Full comparison
Can I upload an .aab file?
Yes, but Android phones cannot install an .aab directly; it is a Play Store format. Upload an .apk for testers to install, and keep .aab uploads for storage and download.
How long do install links work?
A link works as long as its build exists. Builds are kept for 30 days on Free and 90 days on Solo, and indefinitely on Team and Business. Folder links always point at the latest build, so they keep working as new builds arrive. Install URLs
Related
- How to share a mobile app build with testers
- buildtree vs TestFlight, Firebase App Distribution, Diawi and EAS
- Quickstart: share your first build in 5 minutes
- Troubleshooting installs and uploads
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