idevice_id

List the UDIDs of all attached devices

$ idevice_id --list

$ idevice_id --network

idevice_id [OPTIONS]

-l, --list
    Lists the device IDs of all currently connected iOS devices.

-n, --num
    Prints the total number of connected iOS devices.

-r, --remote
    Prints the device ID of a remote device by its DNS hostname. Useful for network-paired devices.

-d, --debug
    Enables debug output, providing more verbose information for troubleshooting purposes.

-h, --help
    Prints usage information and exits.

idevice_id is a command-line utility from the libimobiledevice project, a cross-platform software library that provides an interface to communicate with Apple iOS devices natively.

This specific tool's primary function is to retrieve and display the Unique Device Identifier (UDID) of an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch connected to the computer via USB. It plays a crucial role in scripting and automation tasks where device identification is necessary, especially when multiple devices are connected.

The command can list all connected device IDs or provide the count of connected devices, making it a versatile tool for managing iOS devices from a Linux environment. It does not require iTunes or other proprietary Apple software to be installed on the host system, relying instead on usbmuxd for communication.

Requires the usbmuxd daemon to be running on the host system for USB communication.
The iOS device must be connected via USB and have 'trusted' the computer (if prompted on the device).
The --remote option requires the device to be paired over Wi-Fi and discoverable by hostname.

When connecting an iOS device to a new computer for the first time, a "Trust This Computer?" dialog will appear on the device. You must tap "Trust" on the device for idevice_id (and other libimobiledevice tools) to function correctly and access device information.

idevice_id relies on the usbmuxd (USB multiplexing daemon) for establishing communication with iOS devices over USB. Ensure that usbmuxd is installed and running on your system for the command to work.

The libimobiledevice project, which includes idevice_id, began in 2007. Its goal was to provide a free and open-source library for interacting with iOS devices on non-Apple operating systems. idevice_id is one of the foundational utilities within this suite, offering a basic but essential function for device identification. Its development has consistently adapted to new iOS versions and device models to maintain compatibility and functionality.

ideviceinfo(1), idevicesyslog(1), idevicepair(1)