iOS iOS Development-Getting tools from Apple

[markw10]

I have just begun reading the book, iPhone and iPad Apps for Absolute Beginners. In the first chapter it talks about joining the developer program and then downloading the SDK and installing the Interface Developer, Xcode, and iPhone/iPad Simulator.
I began the process to do this but it appears to cost $99/year. I'm fine with that but it appears I read somewhere that you only have to pay this and join when you submit the apps and that you can download the tools before joining. I know it'll take me awhile to learn to develop and submit my first app. The book walks you through joining the developer program but is there a place that I can download all the tools and develop so that I don't have to join the developer program until I actually submit the apps?
Thank you for your help.

 

[robbieduncan]

You can create a free account and download the current production tools (but not beta firmware or the beta tools to go with them). You only need to pay $99 to put your app on your phone for testing and submit to the app store.

Edit to add: This is the link for free registration. You can upgrade to a paid registration at a later date without issue.

 

[markw10]

Thank you. That's exactly what I needed. I just signed up so now I can start learning iOS development.