What are the differences between Xcode generated .nib/.xib and interface builder .nib/.xib template?

Question

I am new to iPhone development so I have been working through some tutorials. What I don't understand is how xib fit into the work flow.

In a tutorial, one of the instruction is to create a new UIViewController subclass with "XIB for User Interface" selected. On my first try, I neglected to check that option and I thought may be I can just create the xib in Interface Builder but that didn't work. ( I created the xib using Cocoa Touch View Template, with the same name as the UIViewController and saved it the into project directory so it was added to the project.) I even changed the Class Identify for the File's Owner and hooked up the view outlet (the two differences I noticed when I inspected the xib generated from Xcode.)

So what are the differences between Xcode generated .xib (from UIViewController Template) and the IB .xib template?

Answer 1

I'm not sure I'm following your question. When you created a xib file in Xcode, attempting to edit the xib file will bring up IB. So effectively you are using IB to edit the xib file in Xcode. I never tried creating a "stand-alone" xib file in IB and then hook it up to a project in xcode.

The only reason such an approach may not work is that when you create the xib file within the context of a project, there are associations created (such as "mainnib file base name" attribute in the plist) which will not be automatically generated when you attempt to use a standalone xib file with the xcode project.

Answer 2

XIBs are XML. Diff them and find out for yourself.

Answer 3

XIB files created as part of the New File flow in Xcode have their File's Owner class pre-set, as well as certain outlets (view) already connected. Otherwise, there's not much difference.