How do I connect the dev client to my local development server?

Start your server using 'npx expo start --dev-client', then launch your custom app on the device and scan the QR code or manually enter the Metro bundler URL.

Can I submit development builds to TestFlight?

Yes, using 'eas build -p ios --profile development --submit' will build your client in the cloud and automatically upload it to App Store Connect for TestFlight distribution.

When should I use a development client instead of Expo Go?

You should use a development client when your app requires custom native code, local Expo modules, or specific Apple targets (like widgets) that are not included in the standard Expo Go environment.

How do I build a development client locally?

You can generate a local build by running 'eas build --profile development --local' for your target platform. Note that iOS local builds require a Mac with Xcode installed.

Expo Development Client

Name: Expo Development Client
Author: expo

byexpo

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Mobile Development

Builds and distributes custom Expo development clients for testing apps with native code changes on physical devices.

The Expo Dev Client skill enables developers to move beyond the limitations of Expo Go by automating the creation and distribution of custom development clients. It provides step-by-step guidance for configuring EAS Build, managing cloud-based and local native builds, and deploying to platforms like TestFlight. This skill is essential for mobile developers working with custom native modules, Apple targets like widgets and app clips, or third-party libraries that require native linking, ensuring a smooth transition from development to hardware testing.

Key Features

01Streamlined cloud builds and TestFlight distribution

021,643 GitHub stars

03Local build support for iOS and Android environments

04Guided Metro bundler integration for dev client launchers

05Automated EAS configuration for development profiles

06Native signing credential and build cache management

Use Cases

01Implementing Apple-specific features like widgets, app clips, or extensions

02Testing custom native modules or local Expo modules on physical hardware

03Distributing beta development builds to team members via TestFlight

What are Skills?·How to Install

Install with 🐟 Skill.Fish

npx skillfish add expo/skills expo-dev-client

For use in Claude.ai and ChatGPT