Beta Guide
*Important Disclaimer for Beta Testers*
Because the Ascended iOS beta is still under active development, users should expect minor bugs and crashes to occur while navigating through the app. The purpose of a beta is to identify these bugs ahead of release so we can make the experience as smooth as possible for our future users. You can help us out by participating in the beta, staying active in the conversation online, and submitting feedback to our team when you come across issues.
Ascended has two developers on staff, both of which are also working on building out the rest of the features needed for release, so bug fixes may take up to 10-15 days.
We appreciate your patience while we work through bugs and push out fixes!
Now is where the fun begins! You can start logging your workouts and leveling up. Although we are in a testing phase, we ask that all testers only log workouts they actually perform. We are prioritizing evaluating the user experience as it normally would occur. Part of this round of testing is experimentation with our progression pacing and how long users take to complete missions, promote in rank and finish important milestones.
5. Start Using the App
Step 1. Download Test Flight
The Ascended iOS Beta will be closed exclusively to alpha testers (original playtesters from Aug-Dec '25) and Kickstarter backers. The beta is only compatible with iphones, so Android users will not be able to participate.
To access your beta invite key or download link, either:
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Check your email inbox for a personal beta invite
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Message one of our admins on discord
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or send us a direct message on kickstarter
If you are eligible, but have not received an email invite to the beta, please make sure to check your spam folder from an email titled "Ascended Beta Invite". If you didn't receive anything, please reach out to us at team@ascendedapp.com.
Step 3. Create a New Account
All alpha testers will need to create a new account to test the Ascended iOS beta. This is a completely new version of the app, so we wiped all user experience from our database. Alpha testers will receive an additional useable title "alpha wolf" for participating as an early user.
To create a new account select the "Start Your Journey" button.
Step 4. Watch the Tutorial
If you haven't already, please watch the full Ascended Tutorial video. This will take you through the main gameplay loop to better understand the app. Additionally, there is a story-based guided tutorial in-app with our favorite admissions officer, Amelia Atwood.
TestFlight is Apple's online service for installing and testing beta versions of apps. It allows developers (like us!) to invite users to test pre-release builds and provide feedback before launching on the App Store. You will need to download the Test Flight app onto your mobile device to access the Ascended iOS beta.
Step 2. Access Your Beta Key
P.S. If you see a weird mission name — don’t worry. The app is working. We’re the problem.😅
While authenticating your email, you may receive an authentication email from a domain that includes a long string of numbers and letters. That is normal and you can interact with the email without any concern. If you haven't received the email, please check your spam folder.
The Start Free Trial button will not have an impact on your ability to access the beta app or charge you money. This is just a preview of the paywall new users will be prompted with at release, you will not be cut off of access at level 5.
6. Report Bugs & Crashes
If you encounter a bug, take a screenshot and then click "Share Beta Feedback..." and then on the second screen shown, describe what happened when the error occurred so our team can pinpoint the issue and get it fixed.
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6. Join the Discord
Discord is a free, popular communication app that allows our users to chat in real-time on a private Ascended server. If you haven't already, please consider joining. We have designated a specific channel for beta testers to talk openly about the app experience. Additionally, we will be posting polls, discussing updates and asking for direct feedback there.
7. Have Fun!
While we are testing the beta for feedback, it is also important you remember to have fun using the app. Ascended is built intentionally to help form new healthy habits like daily movement. We designed this app to make you feel like you're playing as the character in your own video game and motivate users through story progression.
Remember this is a personal journey to becoming a better you, however that looks for your individual goals. While we do have competitive elements to the app, try not to get caught up in what everyone else is doing along their journey. Keep the experience centered around your story about who you're becoming. At the end of the day, it is about proving to yourself that you have what it takes to earn your spot among the Ascended.
See you in the Nexus!
