Apple have been especially strict with programmers who want to release 'beta' software to iPhone and iPod Touch users; right now, the company will reject submissions with 'beta' or 'test' style descriptions. However developers must have a way to send out beta or review copies of their apps to beta testers and reviewers. Up until now, the only way to get apps into the hands of testers and reviewers is through iTunes, and that has led to critical reviews as beta software is presumed to be the finished product. Enter Ad Hoc Helper.

Ad Hoc Helper lets you email a copy of your iPhone or iPod's UDID (unique device identifier) to developers so they can add you to their Ad Hoc distribution profiles.  This lets them create a special version of their apps that can be sent to you outside of the normal AppStore channels.

Ad Hoc Helper will automatically generate an email, and embed a 40-character identifier in the email.  All you need to do is send it to the developers.

Developers can then embed the identifier inside the apps they send you.  These apps will only work with your iPhone, iPhone 3G or iPod touch.  You should receive two files: an .app and the .mobileprovision file.  Copy them into itunes, and sync your iPhone to install.  That's it!

How to step-by-step:

1) On your iPhone, open the App Store, go to the 'Utilities' category and download the program 'UDID(Ad Hoc Helper)'.  If you like you can search for the app - it might be quicker than scrolling through the whole list.
2) Run the program. It will automatically compose an email message, with your device identifier. Send the email to the developers.
3) Drag both the .app file and the .mobileprovision file into iTunes on your PC or Mac and sync your iPhone to install.

Ad Hoc Helper how to video: