Skip to content

React Native App Build Guide

This guide covers how to build a release version of a React Native application for both Android and iOS.

Prerequisites

To get started, you'll need the following tools and software:

Core Requirements:

Platform-Specific Requirements:

Android: Building a Release APK

1. Generating a Signed APK

Step 1: Generate a Keystore File

Run the following command to generate a keystore: 

keytool -genkeypair -v -keystore my-release-key.keystore -alias my-key-alias -keyalg RSA -keysize 2048 -validity 10000
Store this file securely and take note of the password, alias, and keystore location.

Step 2: Configure Gradle for Signing

Edit android/app/build.gradle and add: 

android {
    signingConfigs {
        release {
            storeFile file("my-release-key.keystore")
            storePassword "your-store-password"
            keyAlias "your-key-alias"
            keyPassword "your-key-password"
        }
    }
    buildTypes {
        release {
            signingConfig signingConfigs.release
            minifyEnabled true
            proguardFiles getDefaultProguardFile('proguard-android-optimize.txt'), 'proguard-rules.pro'
        }
    }
}
Important: Never commit your keystore or passwords to version control. Consider using environment variables or gradle.properties for sensitive information.

Step 3: Build the Release APK

To generate an APK: 

cd android
./gradlew assembleRelease
Find the output in android/app/build/outputs/apk/release/.

Transfer the APK to your device and install it manually.

iOS: Building a Release IPA

1. Setting Up Xcode Project

Ensure dependencies are installed: 

cd ios
pod install
Open ios/MyApp.xcworkspace in Xcode.

2. Configure Release Scheme

  • In Xcode, go to Product > Scheme > Edit Scheme.
  • Select Release under Build Configuration.

3. Code Signing and Provisioning

  • In Xcode > Signing & Capabilities, select your Apple Developer account.
  • Create an App ID and Provisioning Profile in Apple Developer.

4. Build the iOS App for a Physical Device

To build for a physical device: 

npx react-native run-ios --configuration Release

5. Export IPA for Manual Installation

  1. In Xcode, go to Product > Archive.
  2. Once built, select Distribute App > Ad Hoc or Development.
  3. Export the IPA and install it using Finder or third-party tools like Apple Configurator 2.

Conclusion

This guide provides an overview of building a release version of a React Native app for local installation on Android and iOS devices.