expo-dev-client

Build and distribute Expo development clients for testing native code on devices.

Updated Feb 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/sulthonuladib/boilerplatesting --skill expo-dev-client-sulthonuladib
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: expo-dev-client
Source: https://github.com/sulthonuladib/boilerplatesting/tree/main/.agents/skills/expo-dev-client
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/sulthonuladib/boilerplatesting --skill expo-dev-client-sulthonuladib

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Expo development clients enable testing of native changes without shipping a full production build, accelerating iteration and integration with native modules.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Development client creation with expo-dev-client and EAS Build
  • Local testing on iOS and Android devices
  • Easy distribution via TestFlight and direct installs for testers

Quick Start

Create a development Expo client with EAS and install it on a physical device for testing native changes.

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 React Native native modules on a physical device without a full production build?

An Expo development client lets you test native modules on physical devices without shipping a full production build, accelerating iteration. It builds a customized runtime via EAS Build for real-device validation across iOS and Android.

What is an Expo development client and when do I need it for mobile testing?

An Expo development client is a customized runtime for validating custom native modules in a real-device environment. You need it when your React Native project requires testing native code changes that standard Expo Go cannot support.

How do I build and distribute an Expo dev client using EAS Build?

To build an Expo dev client, configure a developmentClient-enabled eas.json profile and use EAS CLI to execute the build. This generates installable binaries for local testing on iOS and Android physical devices.

Can I distribute an Expo development client through TestFlight?

Yes, you can distribute an Expo development client via TestFlight and direct installs for testers. EAS Build handles the compilation and submission process, making the client available for real-device mobile testing.

Do I need an Expo project and EAS CLI to create a development client?

Yes, creating a development client requires an Expo project, EAS CLI, and a developmentClient-enabled eas.json profile. These prerequisites configure and execute the build for your custom native code testing environment.

Why use an Expo development client instead of Expo Go for testing native code?

Use an Expo development client instead of Expo Go when you need to validate custom native modules. The dev client compiles your native changes into the build, whereas Expo Go only supports standard Expo SDK modules.