Use a framework to build React Native apps
Key Points
- Expo is the recommended community framework
- react-native init moved to community CLI
- Frameworks handle upgrades, builds, and dependency management
Summary
React Native now recommends using a React Native framework — a toolbox that bundles APIs and production-ready tooling — to start new apps. Expo is the only recommended community framework today (framework is free & open source; Expo Application Services (EAS) is an optional paid offering). Frameworks simplify native upgrades, dependency compatibility, build tooling, and developer experience so engineers can focus on app features.
Key Points
- Recommendation: use a React Native framework (for example, Expo) for new projects.
- Expo is the recommended community framework; it provides easier upgrades, better DX, and migration guides on the Expo website.
- If you cannot or choose not to migrate, React Native without a framework remains supported; community tools (React Native Community CLI, Template, Upgrade Helper) continue to work.
- The react-native init command has moved out of core: use
npx @react-native-community/cli@latest initor the react-native-community/cli GitHub repo. - Library authors should follow the RFC0759 recommendations for which APIs to use to remain compatible with frameworks.
- The RFC details how other frameworks can become recommended; the goal is clearer responsibilities between React Native core and frameworks to foster ecosystem growth.