expo-dev-client

Automate Expo development client builds and TestFlight distribution via EAS.

Updated Feb 8, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/gursheyss/styx --skill expo-dev-client-gursheyss
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: expo-dev-client
Source: https://github.com/gursheyss/styx/tree/main/.agents/skills/expo-dev-client
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/gursheyss/styx --skill expo-dev-client-gursheyss

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Simplifies building and distributing Expo development clients when your app requires custom native code, enabling testing on devices and QA workflows.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Dev client creation: Build development clients for testing native code changes on physical devices.
  • EAS integration: Use EAS Build and configuration to enable development builds and track versioning.
  • TestFlight distribution: Build and submit dev clients to TestFlight for testers.

Quick Start

Start by running npx expo start --dev-client to test your app with a custom development client.

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 custom native code changes in an Expo app?

To test custom native code changes in an Expo app, you create an Expo development client to bundle and run the app on physical devices. This development client acts like a custom version of Expo Go that includes your specific native modules and Apple targets.

How do I submit an Expo development build to TestFlight?

You submit an Expo development build to TestFlight by using EAS Build to configure development profiles in eas.json and bundle the client. The process provides end-to-end build and deployment instructions for distributing to testers.

When do I need a development client instead of Expo Go?

You need a development client instead of Expo Go when building apps with custom native modules or Apple targets. It is required to properly test native code changes on physical devices before submitting to TestFlight.

What's the best way to configure EAS Build for an Expo dev client?

The best way to configure EAS Build for an Expo dev client is to define development profiles within your eas.json file. This setup enables versioning tracking and bundles the development client for testing native code changes.

How do I start testing a React Native app with a custom development client?

To start testing a React Native app with a custom development client, run npx expo start --dev-client. This command launches the app using your built development client to verify native code changes.