CocoaPods is one of the most popular dependency managers for iOS and macOS development. It simplifies the process of integrating third-party libraries into Xcode projects. However, many developers face challenges when trying to include C++ files in CocoaPods. While CocoaPods is mainly designed for Objective-C and Swift, you can still use it with C++ files by following the right steps.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using C++ files with CocoaPods. We’ll cover how to modify your Podspec file, update build settings, and link required libraries. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced developer, this article will help you successfully integrate C++ files into CocoaPods.
What is CocoaPods and Why Do You Need It?
CocoaPods is a dependency manager for Swift and Objective-C projects. It helps developers include external libraries and frameworks without manually managing dependencies. With CocoaPods, you can easily add, update, and manage third-party libraries in your Xcode project.
When building an iOS or macOS app, you might need to use external code libraries for networking, UI components, or database management. Instead of manually downloading and configuring each library, CocoaPods automates the process, ensuring compatibility and reducing development time.
Can You Include C++ Files in CocoaPods?
Yes, you can include C++ files in CocoaPods, but it requires some extra configuration. By default, CocoaPods is designed to work with Objective-C and Swift. However, if your project includes C++ files (with a .cpp extension), you must update your Podspec file and build settings to ensure compatibility.
CocoaPods does not natively recognize C++ files, but by properly configuring the Podspec file and linking the required libraries, you can successfully include C++ code in your project. Let’s go through the necessary steps to achieve this.
Steps to Include C++ Files in CocoaPods
To include C++ files in CocoaPods, you must follow these steps:

- Modify the Podspec file to include C++ files.
- Update build settings in Xcode.
- Link the required libraries to ensure C++ compatibility.
By following these steps, you can integrate C++ code into your CocoaPods-based project without issues.
What Is CocoaPods and Why Use C++ Files?
CocoaPods makes dependency management easier for iOS and macOS developers. It allows you to integrate external libraries seamlessly. However, some projects require C++ code for performance optimization, legacy support, or cross-platform compatibility.
C++ is widely used for game development, high-performance computing, and low-level system programming. If your project includes C++ components, you need to configure CocoaPods correctly to handle these files.
Can CocoaPods Work with C++ Files?
Yes, CocoaPods can work with C++ files, but you must modify the Podspec file and configure the project settings properly. Since CocoaPods primarily supports Objective-C and Swift, C++ files need additional setup to ensure proper compilation and linking.
Modify the Podspec File
The Podspec file defines how CocoaPods should handle a library or framework. To include C++ files, you need to update the Podspec file to recognize .cpp files.
Here’s an example of how to modify the Podspec file to include C++ files:
Update Build Settings
After modifying the Podspec file, you need to update your Xcode project’s build settings to support C++. Follow these steps:
- Open Xcode and go to Build Settings.
- Search for “C++ Standard Library”.
- Set it to libc++ (instead of the default libstdc++).
- Locate “Other C++ Flags” and add:
- ini
- CopyEdit
- -std=c++11
- or
- ini
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- -std=c++14
- depending on your C++ version.
Updating these settings ensures that your project compiles C++ files correctly.
Link Required Libraries
C++ files may require additional system libraries. You need to link the required libraries in your project to prevent linker errors.

Steps to Link Libraries in Xcode:
- Open Xcode and go to your project settings.
- Navigate to Build Phases → Link Binary with Libraries.
- Click the + button and add the following:
- libc++.tbd
- libstdc++.tbd (if required for older C++ code)
This ensures that your project can properly link C++ dependencies.
Common Errors and How to Fix Them
When including C++ files in CocoaPods, you might encounter errors. Here are some common issues and solutions:
1. Undefined Symbols for C++ Code
Solution: Ensure that you have linked the required libraries (libc++). Also, check if your .cpp files are properly referenced in the Podspec file.
2. Compiler Error: Unknown Type Name ‘string’
Solution: Add #include <string> at the beginning of your C++ files and ensure that you are using std::string.
3. Linker Error: Undefined Reference to C++ Functions
Solution: Use extern “C” when calling C++ functions from Objective-C.
cpp
CopyEdit
extern “C” {
void myFunction();
}
Best Practices for Using C++ with CocoaPods
To ensure smooth integration, follow these best practices:
- Use Objective-C++ (.mm files) when mixing Objective-C and C++.
- Modularize your code to separate C++ logic from Objective-C.
- Avoid using standard C++ headers in Objective-C files (.m), as it will cause compilation errors.
- Test on multiple architectures to avoid compatibility issues.
Alternative Ways to Use C++ in CocoaPods
If you find CocoaPods difficult to configure for C++ files, consider these alternatives:
- Use a Static Library or Framework: Instead of adding raw .cpp files, compile them into a static library (.a file) or framework and include them in CocoaPods.
- Use Swift Package Manager (SPM): If your project is primarily in Swift, SPM might be a better alternative for managing dependencies.
Using Frameworks
Another way to include C++ files is by using frameworks. You can create a custom framework containing your C++ code and import it into your CocoaPods project. This approach provides better modularity and reusability.
Steps:
- Create a new framework target in Xcode.
- Add your .cpp files to the framework.
- Import the framework into your CocoaPods project.
This method helps maintain a cleaner project structure.
The Bottom Line
Including C++ files in CocoaPods requires modifying the Podspec file, updating build settings, and linking necessary libraries. While CocoaPods primarily supports Objective-C and Swift, with proper configuration, you can successfully integrate C++ code.
By following this guide, you’ll be able to use C++ files in your CocoaPods project without errors. If you encounter issues, check your build settings, linker flags, and Podspec file to ensure everything is correctly set up.
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