expo-dev-client

Create and distribute Expo development clients for iOS and Android testing.

Updated Feb 3, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/msichterman/templatesick --skill expo-dev-client-msichterman
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: expo-dev-client
Source: https://github.com/msichterman/templatesick/tree/main/.agents/skills/expo-dev-client
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/msichterman/templatesick --skill expo-dev-client-msichterman

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps mobile developers create and distribute Expo development clients for testing native code changes.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Local development builds: Create a development client to run with native modules on real devices.
  • Cross-platform testing: Generate dev clients for iOS and Android to validate changes across platforms.
  • Distribution & testing: Prepare and distribute dev clients via TestFlight or other distribution channels to testers.

Quick Start

  • Start the dev client locally: npx expo start --dev-client
  • Build iOS dev client locally: eas build -p ios --profile development --local
  • Build Android dev client locally: eas build -p android --profile development --local
  • Distribute to testers (TestFlight): eas submit -p ios --profile development

Frequently Asked Questions about expo-dev-client

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I build an Expo development client for testing native code changes?

Build an Expo development client locally using EAS CLI commands like `eas build -p ios --profile development --local` to compile native modules and run custom native code on real devices during testing.

What's the best way to distribute an Expo dev client to testers via TestFlight?

Distribute an Expo dev client to testers via TestFlight by running `eas submit -p ios --profile development` after building, which requires valid developer credentials to sign and publish the build.

Do I need Expo CLI and EAS CLI to create a React Native development build?

Yes, creating a React Native development build with this workflow requires both Expo CLI and EAS CLI, along with an Expo project configured with the `developmentClient` profile in your `eas.json` file.

Can I run an Expo dev client locally on both iOS and Android devices?

Yes, you can generate dev clients for both iOS and Android platforms to validate native code changes across platforms, using `eas build` with the respective platform flag and the development profile.

How do I start a local development build after compiling my Expo dev client?

Start the local development build by running `npx expo start --dev-client` in your project directory, which connects the running JavaScript bundle to your newly compiled custom native runtime.