What Is LocalDevVPN? (And Why Location Apps Need It)

If you've set up an on-device location changer or a sideloading tool recently, you've probably been asked to install LocalDevVPN. The word "VPN" makes people nervous. Here's what it actually does.

The short version

LocalDevVPN is a free App Store app that lets apps on your iPhone talk to your iPhone's own developer services. Without it, those services are only reachable from a computer.

It's called a VPN because it uses iOS's VPN feature to create a tiny network inside your phone. It doesn't send your internet traffic to a server somewhere else.

Why it's needed

iOS runs developer services - location simulation, app installation, debugging - that normally listen for a connected computer. An app on the phone can't reach them directly. LocalDevVPN creates a loopback connection so the app can, as if it were the computer.

Mirrage uses it to:

• set your simulated location,
• keep that location updated during routes,
• refresh its own signature every week.

Does it see or slow down my internet?

No. It only handles traffic to your phone's local developer services. Your browsing, apps and streaming go out exactly as normal, and it doesn't change your IP address. (So it's also not a way to change your country for websites - see region vs location.)

How to use it

1. Install LocalDevVPN from the App Store.
2. Open it and switch it on. iOS asks to add a VPN configuration the first time - allow it.
3. Leave it on while you use Mirrage.

Mirrage shows a banner if LocalDevVPN is off, with a button that opens it and jumps back.

Troubleshooting

• Mirrage says it can't reach your iPhone: check LocalDevVPN is on (you'll see VPN in the status bar).
• You use another VPN: iOS runs one VPN at a time. Turn the other one off while using Mirrage.
• After an iOS update: open LocalDevVPN and toggle it off and on.

FAQ

Is LocalDevVPN safe?

It runs entirely on your iPhone and doesn't route your internet traffic anywhere. It just connects apps on the phone to the phone's own developer services.

Can I use LocalDevVPN with another VPN?

Not at the same time - iOS allows one active VPN. Switch your other VPN off while using Mirrage.

Does LocalDevVPN change my location?

No. It doesn't change your IP or your GPS by itself. It lets apps like Mirrage use the location-simulation feature.