How do I create a release build in Xcode?

Product / Scheme / Edit Scheme..

And from the menu that comes up, select Release under "Build Configuration".

Xcode 11

I found this question because I had already finished debugging my app and I wanted to make a release build for the app store. I always forget which menu item to use, though. This answer is a reminder to me and others next time.

Choose the Generic iOS Device from the active scheme menu.

Then go to Product > Archive.

You may have to wait a little while for Xcode to finish archiving your project. After that you will be shown a dialog with your archived project. You can select Distribute app... and follow the prompts.

More Help

This answer is for those who are already all signed up with a developer account and just need to get the archive from Xcode to iTunes Connect. If you need more help signing up for a developer account and getting an app to the app store, read the following links.

• How to Submit An App to Apple: From No Account to App Store – Part 1
• How to Submit An App to Apple: From No Account to App Store – Part 2
• App Distribution Guide (Apple Docs)
• Submitting Your App to the Store (Apple Docs)