Question

Is there any way to get uncompressed *.nib files from a *.ipa file which is downloaded from iTunes? I know there are ways to extract the resources (jpg/png/sounds) using File juicer or similar tools. But I’m looking for a tool which can extract the *.nib or *.xib files from an *.ipa file to reuse the nib.

Thanks for any help.

Answer 1

I believe in an older version of Xcode, maybe 3.0 or even before, Interface Builder could read .nib files. These are basically compiled, like source code, and there is no way to decompress them or to see the contents, much like .png images are crushed.

Update

Found a video on Youtube, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dInaIlzVsn8, but have not tried it. Claims to be able to open compiled .nib files.

Update 2

Here is another possible way to open a compiled .nib. This process requires you to retrieve a .nib from Hulu Desktop application, which is not compiled, and replace it’s contents.

http://www.macstories.net/tutorials/how-to-edit-nib-files-in-snow-leopard/