Question 1

How do I package a Python GUI app for macOS using Briefcase?

Accepted Answer

Use the 'briefcase create' and 'briefcase build' commands with the macOS template after configuring your project. Ensure your GUI framework (e.g., Tkinter, PyQt) is included in dependencies, and follow the platform-specific guidelines in the documentation for signing and distribution.

Question 2

Briefcase vs PyInstaller: which is better for Python apps?

Accepted Answer

Briefcase is better for multi-platform native apps with a unified workflow and mobile/web support, while PyInstaller is simpler for desktop-only bundles. Briefcase integrates with BeeWare for native feel, but PyInstaller might have fewer dependencies and faster builds for basic cases.

Question 3

Can Briefcase handle apps with C extensions or complex dependencies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it may require manual configuration in the project file to ensure compatibility across platforms. Some native dependencies might need platform-specific builds, and troubleshooting can be more involved compared to pure Python packages.

Question 4

What tools do I need to build iOS apps with Briefcase?

Accepted Answer

You need Xcode installed on a macOS system, along with Python and Briefcase. The setup involves configuring certificates and provisioning profiles for code signing, as detailed in the iOS packaging documentation on Read The Docs.

Question 5

How to reduce the size of a Briefcase packaged application?

Accepted Answer

Optimize by excluding unnecessary dependencies, using virtual environments, and configuring the project file to strip unused modules. However, the Python runtime inclusion inherently adds bulk, so significant reductions may be limited.

Question 6

Does Briefcase support automatic updates for distributed apps?

Accepted Answer

Briefcase focuses on packaging and does not include built-in update mechanisms. Developers need to implement their own update solutions, such as using web services or platform-specific app stores, for ongoing distribution.

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