The iTunesArtwork Image: Is this needed every time, or just in Ad-hoc distribution cases?

Question

I am not surfe if I really need every time this 512 x 512 Pixel Icon, since I don't plan to use Ad-hoc distribution. If I get it right, Ad-hoc distribution is the case when you make an App that is supposed to go only on a very few company iPhones, and you dont want anyone to get that app. If that's true, I choose the other distribution type where anyone can get the app. Would I need that image in that case?

Answer 1

Yes, it's for AdHoc distribution where people copy the files into iTunes to allow them to be added to their phone. Technically you don't even need it for AdHoc distribution, if it's not present a default image will be shown in iTunes.

However when submitting to the app store you DO need a 512x512 image which will be shown in the store.

Answer 2

For ad hoc distributions: you can build the 512 x 512 jpeg image into your application as an "iTunesArtwork" resource, and iTunes will display it automatically.

However, there are two important rules to follow:

• the image format has to be jpeg
• the file name has to be "iTunesArtwork" with no file name extension

When submitting an app to the app store, you upload the 512 x 512 image separately and it does not need to be built into the app as a resource...