Install Android Studio IDE

The Google IDE — used for native debugging, Gradle inspection, emulator, AAB analyzer, Layout Inspector. Cursor/VSCode handles daily RN code.

Download

developer.android.com/studio → latest stable (Koala Feature Drop 2024.3+ as of 2026).

First-run wizard

Pick:

• UI theme: Darcula (or Material Theme UI plugin)
• Standard install (not custom, unless you know what you're skipping)
• SDK location: default ~/Library/Android/sdk
• Accept ALL licenses (incl. Google Play TV/Auto if asked)