expo-dev-client

Build and distribute custom Expo development clients via EAS for iOS and Android.

2|Updated Aug 26, 2023
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/VaggelisKa/subscriptions-manager --skill expo-dev-client-vaggeliska
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: expo-dev-client
Source: https://github.com/VaggelisKa/subscriptions-manager/tree/main/.agents/skills/expo-dev-client
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/VaggelisKa/subscriptions-manager --skill expo-dev-client-vaggeliska

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

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

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Create and deploy custom development clients for apps with native modules.
  • Build and distribute via EAS (development profile) to iOS and Android, including local and TestFlight workflows.
  • Install and run the dev client on devices to connect to local Metro bundler.

Quick Start

Start a development client by running npx expo start --dev-client and then connect your device to the local server.

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 and test an Expo app with custom native modules on a physical device?

You create a custom Expo development client to test native code changes on physical devices by provisioning and distributing builds via EAS for iOS and Android, including local and TestFlight workflows.

When do I need a custom Expo dev client instead of the standard Expo Go app?

A custom Expo dev client is required when your project includes custom native modules or specific Apple targets, enabling testing of native code changes that the standard Expo Go app cannot support.

How do I start an Expo development client and connect it to my local Metro bundler?

Start an Expo development client by running the command npx expo start --dev-client, then connect your physical device to the local server to link with the Metro bundler.

Can I distribute an Expo development client to iOS testers through TestFlight?

Yes, you can distribute an Expo development client to iOS testers through TestFlight by utilizing EAS cloud builds configured with a development profile to provision and distribute the application.

Does EAS support local builds for Expo dev clients on both iOS and Android?

EAS supports local builds for Expo dev clients on both iOS and Android, enabling you to configure, build, and install custom development clients directly on your own machine for native code testing.

What are the limitations of using an Expo development client for mobile app testing?

Using an Expo development client requires provisioning and distributing a new build via EAS whenever you add or modify custom native modules, ensuring the latest native code changes are available for testing on physical devices.