An application that simulates the iOS operating system within another operating system (like Windows, macOS, or Linux) or a web browser, allowing users to run iOS applications on non-Apple hardware without direct access to an Apple device. This functionality enables developers, testers, and even general users to interact with the iOS environment outside of the standard iPhone or iPad.
These simulators provide accessibility to a wider audience, enabling testing and development of applications on various platforms and can significantly reduce development costs by removing the need for physical iOS devices for every team member. Historically, the desire to run iOS applications on other systems stemmed from the inherent limitations of Apples ecosystem. Now, with the advent of cloud-based technologies, the accessibility and convenience of these simulators have expanded considerably.