A massive leak of Apple’s TestFlight servers from 2012 to 2015 has revealed thousands of iOS app development builds and prototypes, some of which are no longer available on the App Store. The leak, dubbed the “Teraleak” by the anonymous group behind it, has sparked interest and nostalgia among iOS users and developers.
TestFlight is a service that allows iOS developers to distribute beta versions of their apps to testers before releasing them on the App Store. TestFlight was acquired by Apple in 2014 and integrated into its developer tools.
According to the Teraleak group, they were able to access the TestFlight servers using a vulnerability that was present from 2012 to 2015. They claim that they downloaded over 10 terabytes of data, including app builds, metadata, screenshots, and icons. They also say that they did not hack or compromise any Apple accounts or devices, and that they only accessed publicly available data.
The group says that they decided to leak the data to the public because they wanted to preserve the history of iOS app development and share it with the community. They also say that they respect the developers’ rights and that they will remove any app upon request.
What kind of apps and games are in the leak?
The leak contains a treasure trove of classic iOS apps and games, some of which have been discontinued, removed, or changed significantly over the years. Some examples are:
- Angry Birds: The leak includes several versions of the popular physics-based game, including prototypes, betas, and updates. Some of the versions have features or levels that were never released or removed later.
- Flappy Bird: The leak includes the original version of the viral hit game, which was removed from the App Store in 2014 by its developer, who said that it was too addictive and stressful.
- Infinity Blade: The leak includes the first two installments of the epic action RPG series, which were removed from the App Store in 2018 by Epic Games, who said that they could no longer support them due to technical issues.
- Super Hexagon: The leak includes the beta version of the minimalist action game, which has a different soundtrack and graphics than the final version.
- Cut the Rope: The leak includes several versions of the cute puzzle game, including prototypes, betas, and updates. Some of the versions have different levels, mechanics, or characters than the final version.
The leak also contains many other apps and games from various genres and categories, such as productivity, social, education, entertainment, and more. Some of the apps and games are still available on the App Store, while others are not. Some of the apps and games are exclusive to certain regions, devices, or platforms, while others are universal.
How can I access the leak and try the apps and games?
The Teraleak group has created a website where they have uploaded the data and organized it by app name, category, and date. The website also has a search function and a random app generator. The website is accessible at teraleak.com
To try the apps and games, you will need an iOS device that is compatible with the app or game you want to install. You will also need to download and install TestFlight from the App Store, and use the invitation code provided on the website. Alternatively, you can use a third-party app like iMazing or Apple Configurator 2 to transfer the app .ipa file to your device.
However, be aware that some of the apps and games may not work properly or at all, due to compatibility issues, bugs, or missing features. Some of the apps and games may also contain malware, spyware, or other harmful code, so use them at your own risk. The Teraleak group is not responsible for any damage or loss caused by the apps and games.
What are the implications and reactions of the leak?
The leak has generated mixed reactions from the iOS community. Some users and developers have praised the leak as a valuable source of historical and educational data, and as a way to revive and enjoy old apps and games. Some users and developers have also expressed gratitude to the Teraleak group for their efforts and generosity.
However, some users and developers have criticized the leak as a violation of privacy and intellectual property rights, and as a potential threat to security and stability. Some users and developers have also requested the Teraleak group to remove their apps and games from the website, or to take down the website altogether.
Apple has not officially commented on the leak, but it is likely that they are aware of it and are taking measures to prevent further leaks. Apple has also updated TestFlight to block the installation of apps and games that have not been authorized by the developers for use on Macs, as reported by MacRumors.
The leak raises questions about the security and preservation of iOS app development, and the balance between innovation and protection. It also showcases the evolution and diversity of iOS app development, and the creativity and passion of iOS developers and users.
