I'm trying to get started with developing a game for the iPhone but the SDK will only run on a Mac (or at least, Mac OS). Unfortunately, I only have PC's. I'm trying to find virtualization software which would let me run an instance of OSX on my PC, but I'm only able to find virtualization software which runs windows on a Mac. Is anyone else developing mac software on a PC? If so, how is your development environment setup?

I'm about to find myself in a similar situation so I'd be interested in seeing a solution, but unfortunately I have heard that virtualising MacOS isn't even possible let alone permitted by the EULA.

As far as I'm aware, there are no virtualization packages that will run OS X on any system other than OS X. Additionally, in order to sell software through the app store, you need to be in compliance with your Apple Terms of Use, which requires that you run OS X only on Apple hardware. OS X is tied to Apple hardware, so it would probably require a hack of the like used to get it to run on arbitrary X64 hardware.

Have a look here. You can probably build a dual boot machine fairly easy. Bear in mind that you should obtain a legal copy of OsX for this.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hackintosh

I havent tried this, but was recommended it


alternatively develop on linux (prolly better) or windows + then port over
buy a cheap 2nd hand apple
or
use one from a school

The Register ran an article on How to run Mac OS X on a generic PC yesterday. Given the amount of effort involved I'd say that buying the cheapest Mac that covers your needs would be the most efficient route.

Quote: Original post by zedz
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hackintosh

I havent tried this, but was recommended it

My friend did that. It was meh at best and a lot of stuff didn't work worth a damn.

yes I suspected as much, personally I'ld just go the route benryves suggested
buy a cheap 2nd hand apple it doesnt have to be good since I assume youre not using it to replace your main machine

Quote: Original post by zedz
yes I suspected as much, personally I'ld just go the route benryves suggested
buy a cheap 2nd hand apple it doesnt have to be good since I assume youre not using it to replace your main machine

Yeah, I think this is what I'm going to have to do. A friend recommends the Macbook or mini, as long as it has an intel core processor. I found something pretty decent on craigslist for $600.

On the bright side, I will be totally clueless about macs and once I get the iPhone SDK installed, I can seclude myself to a coffee shop somewhere in Seattle and have no choice but to get work done!