iOS application files are distributed to the device as .ipa files. They have a standardized structure that is recognized by iTunes and the App Store. Performing static analysis on iOS devices is more difficult because iOS provides limited access to their .ipa files, and typically the files that you want to access can only be obtained through a jailbreak. Should you be fortunate enough to get your hands on .ipa files outside of iTunes for analysis, you will also need a Mac to access the application contents. Free tools, such as iFunBox, used to provide some functionality for viewing and transferring iOS applications from a connected device.¹

The structure of an .ipa file is packaged similar to the .zip file format, and .ipa files can be unzipped to further examine their contents.² Inside the .ipa file is a package named “payload” that contains all application data. The file can be unpacked to review the contents. An unzipped copy of Pokémon GO is shown here in the slide above.

1. To unzip an .ipa file, simply right-click on it and choose “unzip.”

2. Next, right-click on the “payload” package and choose “Show Package Contents” to view application contents inside.

References:

[1] https://for585.com/viewipa

[2] Ibid