expo-dev-client

Create and distribute Expo development clients for iOS and Android testing.

Updated Feb 3, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/msichterman/templatesick --skill expo-dev-client-msichterman
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: expo-dev-client
Source: https://github.com/msichterman/templatesick/tree/main/.agents/skills/expo-dev-client
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/msichterman/templatesick --skill expo-dev-client-msichterman

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps mobile developers create and distribute Expo development clients for testing native code changes.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Local development builds: Create a development client to run with native modules on real devices.
  • Cross-platform testing: Generate dev clients for iOS and Android to validate changes across platforms.
  • Distribution & testing: Prepare and distribute dev clients via TestFlight or other distribution channels to testers.

Quick Start

  • Start the dev client locally: npx expo start --dev-client
  • Build iOS dev client locally: eas build -p ios --profile development --local
  • Build Android dev client locally: eas build -p android --profile development --local
  • Distribute to testers (TestFlight): eas submit -p ios --profile development

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 an Expo development client for testing native code changes?▼

Build an Expo development client locally using EAS CLI commands like `eas build -p ios --profile development --local` to compile native modules and run custom native code on real devices during testing.

What's the best way to distribute an Expo dev client to testers via TestFlight?▼

Distribute an Expo dev client to testers via TestFlight by running `eas submit -p ios --profile development` after building, which requires valid developer credentials to sign and publish the build.

Do I need Expo CLI and EAS CLI to create a React Native development build?▼

Yes, creating a React Native development build with this workflow requires both Expo CLI and EAS CLI, along with an Expo project configured with the `developmentClient` profile in your `eas.json` file.

Can I run an Expo dev client locally on both iOS and Android devices?▼

Yes, you can generate dev clients for both iOS and Android platforms to validate native code changes across platforms, using `eas build` with the respective platform flag and the development profile.

How do I start a local development build after compiling my Expo dev client?▼

Start the local development build by running `npx expo start --dev-client` in your project directory, which connects the running JavaScript bundle to your newly compiled custom native runtime.