Skills

expo-dev-client

Installation
Summary

Build custom Expo development clients for testing native code on physical devices via EAS Build or locally.

  • Only needed when using custom native modules, Apple targets (widgets, app clips), or third-party native code not in Expo Go; try Expo Go first with npx expo start
  • Supports cloud builds with automatic TestFlight submission or local builds on your machine, outputting .ipa (iOS) or .apk/.aab (Android) files
  • Requires eas.json configuration with a development profile that sets developmentClient: true and autoIncrement: true
  • Once installed, the dev client launcher UI connects to your local Metro bundler via URL or QR code for live development and native code testing
SKILL.md

Use EAS Build to create development clients for testing native code changes on physical devices. Use this for creating custom Expo Go clients for testing branches of your app.

Important: When Development Clients Are Needed

Only create development clients when your app requires custom native code. Most apps work fine in Expo Go.

You need a dev client ONLY when using:

  • Local Expo modules (custom native code)
  • Apple targets (widgets, app clips, extensions)
  • Third-party native modules not in Expo Go

Try Expo Go first with npx expo start. If everything works, you don't need a dev client.

EAS Configuration

Ensure eas.json has a development profile:

{
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