• React Conf recommends using a React Native framework, like Expo, as the primary tool for new app development. • Frameworks bundle essential APIs, simplifying navigation, data fetching, and state management across screens. • They handle native code upgrades, dependency compatibility, and build tool integration automatically. • This lets developers focus on building features rather than solving repetitive infrastructure problems. • While custom frameworks are possible, most teams benefit from ready‑made solutions. • Large companies build internal frameworks for deep integration, but open‑source options cover most needs.

Article Summaries:

  • React Conf announced that the preferred way to start new React Native projects is to use a dedicated framework, with Expo being the sole recommended community framework. Expo provides a comprehensive toolbox that handles navigation, data fetching, native upgrades, dependency management, and build tooling, allowing developers to focus on app features rather than boilerplate. The announcement highlighted that Expo remains free and open‑source, while its paid Expo Application Services (EAS) offer optional advanced services. Existing apps can migrate to Expo via official guides, and non‑Expo workflows will continue to be supported, including updated CLI commands for initializing projects.

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