11-Manual Testing Techniques for Mobile Applications

11-Manual Testing Techniques for Mobile Applications

Overview

This lecture covers iOS app testing using Xcode and simulators, then provides practical steps for writing test cases and bug reports, including a hands-on exercise.

iOS App Testing Fundamentals

• iOS app testing validates functionality, usability, and performance on Apple devices.
• Primary testing focuses on real devices; simulators offer cost-effective alternatives for developers and automation engineers.
• Key aspects tested include functionality, user interface (UI), device and OS compatibility, and real-world performance.
• Testing on real devices helps uncover device-specific and network-related issues.

Xcode and Simulator Basics

• Xcode is Apple’s IDE used for iOS app development and testing, available only on Mac OS.
• Xcode includes a Simulator tool that mimics various iPhone and iPad models and OS versions.
• Download Xcode from the official Apple developer site, extract the .xip file, and install by dragging the app to the Applications folder.
• Simulators allow interaction with apps using mouse gestures similar to phone taps and drags.
• Simulator can rotate device orientation, adjust volume, and connect to peripherals like Apple Watch.

Testing Web Apps in Simulator

• Mobile web apps can be tested in the simulator’s browser (Safari).
• Enable “Show features for web developers” in Safari settings to access Dev Tools.
• Use Dev Tools for inspecting elements, monitoring network activity, and debugging web app functionality.
• Dev Tools are accessed via the Develop menu, linking Safari on the simulator to the main Mac.

Writing Test Cases and Bug Reports

• Test cases document specific app functionalities to validate, using the format “Verify that…”.
• A precondition is any requirement that must be met before running the test (e.g., a photo must exist to edit).
• Steps should be clear, specific, and action-oriented (e.g., “Tap edit in the top right corner”).
• Expected result should match the “Verify that” statement, confirming the functionality works as intended.
• Bug reports should be documented if unexpected behavior occurs during testing.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Xcode — Apple’s integrated development environment (IDE) for building and testing iOS apps.
• Simulator — A tool in Xcode to mimic iOS device operation for testing apps.
• Manual Testing — Testing apps by interacting directly without automation scripts.
• Test Case — A structured document specifying what to test, preconditions, steps, and expected results.
• Precondition — A requirement that must be met before a test can be run.
• Bug Report — Documentation of a software defect or unexpected behavior.
• UI (User Interface) — Visual elements users interact with.
• UX (User Experience) — The overall experience and satisfaction from using an app.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Duplicate the shared spreadsheet, rename for your lesson, and enable editing.
• Choose an app and specific functionality to test; write a test case using the provided format.
• Perform manual testing, document results, and, if needed, file a bug report.
• Share your completed test case link for feedback.