expo-dev-client

Build and distribute Expo development clients for native code testing.

Updated Feb 28, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/raphaelmans/agent-skills --skill expo-dev-client-raphaelmans
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: expo-dev-client
Source: https://github.com/raphaelmans/agent-skills/tree/main/expo-dev-client
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/raphaelmans/agent-skills --skill expo-dev-client-raphaelmans

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Development teams often struggle to test apps that include custom native code or platform-specific features outside of Expo Go. Expo dev client enables building and distributing a tailored runtime that integrates your native code or libraries for testing on physical devices or TestFlight.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Create development clients for apps requiring custom native code (native modules) or Apple targets (widgets, app clips, extensions).
  • Build and distribute locally or via TestFlight to streamline testing across devices.
  • Integrate with EAS: configure development profiles and developmentClient: true to automate builds and distribution.

Quick Start

Start a local development session with the dev client by running npx expo start --dev-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 modules in a React Native app outside Expo Go?

To test custom native modules outside Expo Go, use an Expo dev client to build a tailored runtime integrating local native code or libraries for testing on physical devices or TestFlight.

How do I configure EAS for iOS and Android development builds?

Configure EAS for development builds by setting developmentClient: true and defining proper eas.json profiles for iOS and Android builds to automate building and distribution.

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

You need a development build when your app includes custom native code, third-party native modules not in Expo Go, or Apple platform targets like widgets, app clips, and extensions.

What is the command to start a local development session with an Expo dev client?

To start a local development session with an Expo dev client, run npx expo start --dev-client, requiring Expo CLI and EAS configuration to function properly.

Can I distribute a React Native app with local native code to TestFlight?

Yes, you can distribute a React Native app with local native code to TestFlight by building and distributing a development client that integrates your native code or libraries.