Question 1

How do I add native functionality to an Expo app without ejecting?

Accepted Answer

Use Expo config plugins, which mutate native iOS and Android project files at prebuild time. First check for an existing expo-X package, then a community plugin, then write a custom config plugin of roughly 30 lines for Info.plist or AndroidManifest tweaks.

Question 2

When should I write a custom Expo config plugin?

Accepted Answer

Write a custom config plugin when you only need configuration changes like permission strings, URL schemes, or build settings. If you need actual Swift or Kotlin code, write an Expo Module instead using create-expo-module.

Question 3

Should I use app.json or app.config.ts in Expo?

Accepted Answer

Use app.config.ts because it provides TypeScript type safety, supports dynamic values from environment variables, and enables dev, staging, and prod variants from one source. Never mix both files since precedence is unclear.

Question 4

Can I put secrets in the Expo config extra field?

Accepted Answer

No, the extra field ships inside the JavaScript bundle and is visible to anyone who inspects the app. Use EAS Build environment variables or a secrets service for sensitive values instead.

Question 5

How do I verify Expo config plugins before building?

Accepted Answer

Run npx expo prebuild --no-install --clean to execute the plugin pipeline locally. This generates the ios and android directories so you can inspect native output and catch errors before running EAS Build.

void-expo-config-plugins

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

Frequently Asked Questions about void-expo-config-plugins

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