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Xcode MCP Server

Xcode MCP Server

by ebowwa
OverviewSchemaSourceRelated ServersDiscussionsAdmin
TypeScript
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xcode_launch_app_simulator

Launch iOS or macOS applications on a simulator by specifying the device ID and bundle identifier for testing and development purposes.

Instructions

Launch an app on a simulator

Tool call template

Replace each placeholder with a value matching the input schema. Only required parameters are included; add optional parameters as needed.

{
  "id": 1,
  "jsonrpc": "2.0",
  "method": "tools/call",
  "params": {
    "arguments": {
      "device_id": "<device_id>",
      "bundle_id": "<bundle_id>"
    },
    "name": "xcode_launch_app_simulator"
  }
}

Input Schema

NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
device_idYesSimulator device ID
bundle_idYesApp bundle identifier

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. First observed

TDQS

C2.9/5.0
Behavior2/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It states the action ('Launch') but lacks behavioral details such as whether this requires specific permissions, what happens if the app is already running, error conditions, or output format. This is inadequate for a mutation tool with zero annotation coverage.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is a single, efficient sentence with no wasted words. It's front-loaded with the core action and target, making it easy to scan and understand quickly.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness2/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the tool's mutation nature (launching an app), lack of annotations, and no output schema, the description is incomplete. It doesn't cover behavioral aspects, error handling, or dependencies, leaving significant gaps for an AI agent to use it correctly.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 100%, with both parameters ('device_id' and 'bundle_id') documented in the schema. The description doesn't add any parameter-specific information beyond what's in the schema, so it meets the baseline score of 3 for high schema coverage.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the action ('Launch') and target ('an app on a simulator'), which is specific and unambiguous. However, it doesn't differentiate from sibling tools like 'xcode_run_on_device' or 'xcode_install_app_simulator', which reduces clarity about its unique role in the toolset.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines2/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It doesn't mention prerequisites (e.g., needing a booted simulator via 'xcode_boot_simulator'), exclusions, or how it differs from related tools like 'xcode_run_on_device' for physical devices.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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