React Native Academy · Lesson

Installing Node, Expo CLI, and Simulators

Set up Node.js, the Expo CLI, and configure iOS Simulator or Android Emulator so you can run React Native apps locally.

Why Node.js Powers React Native

React Native runs on Node.js — it powers the Metro bundler that turns your JSX into an app. Install the LTS version for stability, ideally via the nvm version manager.

# Install nvm (Node Version Manager)
curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.7/install.sh | bash

# Then install the latest LTS Node
nvm install --lts
nvm use --lts

# Verify installation
node --version   # e.g. v20.12.0
npm --version    # e.g. 10.5.0

Installing the Expo CLI

The Expo CLI lets you create, run, and build apps without touching native code. Pair it with the Expo Go app to scan a QR code and see your app on a real phone instantly.

# Install Expo CLI globally
npm install -g expo-cli

# Verify the installation
expo --version

# Alternatively, use npx (no global install needed)
npx create-expo-app --version

All lessons in this course

Installing Node, Expo CLI, and Simulators
Creating Your First Expo Project
Running on Device and Emulator
Understanding the Project Structure

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