expo-dev-client

To build an Expo development client for testing custom native modules, you can use local builds or cloud-based builds to compile your React Native project and test native code changes on physical devices or simulators.

You need a custom development client instead of Expo Go when your React Native app requires custom native modules, specific native configurations, or Apple targets like widgets that exceed Expo Go's standard supported capabilities.

Yes, you can submit an Expo dev client directly to TestFlight. The process supports cloud-based builds that compile your React Native application and submit it straight to TestFlight for physical device testing.

Yes, this approach supports local builds for React Native native code changes. You can compile the development client locally and install it directly onto physical devices or simulators to iterate quickly.

The best way to test custom native code on physical devices in Expo is building a custom development client. This bypasses Expo Go limitations, allowing you to compile specific native modules and distribute them via TestFlight or local installation.