React Native and Expo in 2026

The React Native and Expo ecosystem has matured in 2025. As we move into 2026, these are the themes that matter most for product and engineering teams.

New Architecture by Default

The New Architecture (Fabric, TurboModules) is the path forward. Expo SDK 52+ and recent RN releases assume it. If you’re still on the old architecture, plan a migration window: update native dependencies, fix any incompatible libraries, and run through your critical flows. The performance and interop benefits are worth the one-time cost.

EAS as the Default Release Path

EAS Build, Submit, and Update are the standard way to build, submit, and push OTA updates. Using EAS reduces local machine and Xcode/Android Studio drift and gives you reproducible, auditable builds. Budget time to move from legacy build and submit steps to EAS if you haven’t already.

TypeScript and Static Typing

TypeScript adoption in React Native projects is high. In 2026, lean into strict mode and shared types between app and API. It catches more bugs at build time and makes refactors safer.

Staying current on the New Architecture, EAS, and TypeScript will keep your React Native stack in good shape for 2026.