Installation

1. Install Project Dependencies

First, install all project dependencies:

npm install

2. Install Global CLI Tools

Then, install the necessary CLI tools globally:

npm install -g expo-cli eas-cli

Note: If you prefer not to install globally, you can use npx before each command instead.

Creating Development Builds

Option 1: Local Build with Expo Development Client (Free)

Build your development client locally on your machine:

# For Android
npx expo run:android

# For iOS
npx expo run:ios

Pros: Free, no cloud service needed Cons: Requires Android Studio/Xcode setup locally

Option 2: Cloud Build with EAS (Paid)

Build your development client using Expo's cloud service:

# First-time setup
eas build:configure

# Build for Android
eas build --profile development --platform android

# Build for iOS
eas build --profile development --platform ios

# Build for both platforms
eas build --profile development --platform all

Pros: No local setup required, builds in the cloud Cons: Requires EAS subscription for multiple builds

Starting the Development Server

Once your development build is installed on your device:

# Start with tunnel for remote testing
npx expo start --dev-client --tunnel

# Clear cache if needed
npx expo start --dev-client --clear

Common Issues & Tips

• Tunnel not working? Try --localhost or --lan instead
• Build failed? Clear cache with npx expo start --clear
• Need to update the build? Rerun the build command and reinstall on device
• Testing on physical device? Use --tunnel for easier connection

Additional Resources

• Expo Development Builds Documentation
• EAS Build Documentation