expo-dev-client

To test custom native modules in Expo on a real device, you build and install a development client. This creates a dedicated app build to validate native code changes without rebuilding the entire app for every iteration.

An Expo dev client is used to assemble, distribute, and test applications containing custom native code. It provides a reliable environment to validate native modules and branches on physical iOS and Android devices during development.

Yes, you can distribute an Expo development client to TestFlight for iOS testing. The workflow supports TestFlight distribution alongside local builds, enabling real-device validation across both iOS and Android platforms.

Yes, EAS supports local builds for testing native code changes. By configuring EAS and following the deployment workflow, you can assemble builds and validate custom modules directly on connected physical devices.

No, you do not need to rebuild your entire Expo app for every native code change. Creating a development client allows you to assemble and distribute a testable build that streamlines validation without full rebuilds.