In our iOS application, we need to list available WiFi networks so that users can select one for device configuration. Here's the workflow: Initially, the hardware device acts as a WiFi Access Point (AP). The app should scan for nearby WiFi networks to detect the device's AP. The app connects temporarily to this AP and sends the selected WiFi credentials to the device. The device then connects to the selected WiFi network and stops broadcasting its AP. Is this flow achievable on iOS? We understand that Apple restricts access to WiFi scanning APIs — are there any supported methods (e.g., using NEHotspotHelper) or entitlements (such as MFi) that could enable this?
Is it possible to scan for nearby WiFi networks … ?
No.
Is it possible to … connect to a device in AP mode on iOS?
Yes.
You can find a summary of iOS’s Wi-Fi APIs in TN3111 iOS Wi-Fi API overview. For your specific situation I have a forums post, Extra-ordinary Networking > Working with a Wi-Fi Accessory, that has more in-depth info.
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Quinn “The Eskimo!” @ Developer Technical Support @ Apple
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