expo-dev-client

Create Expo development builds and distribute them via TestFlight or direct device testing.

Updated Aug 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/ashleytower/claude-code-workflow --skill expo-dev-client-ashleytower
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: expo-dev-client
Source: https://github.com/ashleytower/claude-code-workflow/tree/main/skills/expo-dev-client
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ashleytower/claude-code-workflow --skill expo-dev-client-ashleytower

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Expo dev clients help you test native code changes by providing a custom client that runs your app with your local native changes, avoiding the need to rebuild the entire app for every test.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Create development builds of your Expo app with a custom dev client to test native changes quickly.
  • Distribute to physical devices or TestFlight for QA and stakeholder review.
  • Use cases include validating native module integration, widget/test extension development, and rapid iteration during feature development.

Quick Start

Run a local Expo dev client build against your project to begin testing immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions about expo-dev-client

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I test native code changes in an Expo app without rebuilding every time?

Expo dev clients let you test native code changes by creating a custom development client that runs your app with local native modifications, avoiding full rebuilds for every test iteration.

What is an Expo dev client used for?

An Expo dev client is a custom development build used to validate native module integration, test widget extensions, and iterate rapidly during React Native feature development.

How do I distribute an Expo development build to TestFlight for iOS?

You can distribute Expo dev clients to TestFlight for iOS QA and stakeholder review by configuring EAS build, sign, and deploy tooling to ship the custom client to physical devices.

Do I need EAS configuration to build a custom Expo dev client?

Yes, EAS configuration is required to build, sign, and deploy custom Expo dev clients for both local development workflows and TestFlight distribution.

When should I use an Expo dev client instead of the standard Expo Go app?

Use an Expo dev client when validating native module integration or developing widget extensions, as it provides a custom client with your local native changes rather than a generic shell.