Converting Android and iOS Apps to React Native: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Quick Summary

React Native is ranked 12th among the widely used frameworks and libraries, with 8.43% of coders embracing it. Even many businesses look to Hire React Native Developers to convert their Android and iOS apps to React Native. Its amazing features and functionalities are winning hearts, attracting many app owners to switch to this framework. In this guide, let’s discuss some good reasons and steps to switch to React Native.

There is an abundance of programming languages in the world of technology, and new languages are being introduced rapidly. Among all these, developers can choose anyone, keeping in mind their specific requirements. Like, if they want to develop a cross-platform compatible app in less time, React Native can be the best choice. It’s an open-source framework released in 2015 by Facebook, enabling coders to integrate native codes with React.

A Brief About React Native and Its Uses

React Native is an open-source UI framework widely used to develop natively-rendered apps for Android, iOS, and more. You can create applications utilizing the same code for several platforms. Many giant brands, including Instagram, Skype, and Facebook, have powered their apps with React Native.

As ReactJS powers it, React Native enables coders to utilize UI elements to develop and launch mobile apps swiftly. This framework follows the “bridge” concept to ensure asynchronous contact between the JavaScript and Native components.

It continually brings updates and improvements to refine app performance. The same can be witnessed with the newest React Native 0.72 version. The TurboModules and Runtime Linking support provide developers with powerful tools to create performant and scalable applications.

React Native can be used to develop customer-oriented apps. Several eCommerce and social media platforms are employing this framework for competitive advantage. If you are unsure whether it performs for you, reach out to React Native developers for assistance.

Why Are Businesses Converting Ios & Android Apps to React Native?

Developing apps utilizing React Native offers a responsive user interface while ensuring easy third-party plugins and API integration. Let’s discuss compelling reasons why businesses are converting apps to React Native.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
React Native facilitates cross-platform app development, which means creating software applications compatible with numerous platforms using a single codebase. As there’s no need to develop separate codes, it results in rapid app development while saving resources and increasing efficiency.
  • Access to a Large JavaScript Library
Anyone can access JavaScript libraries during React Native app development. Since React Native utilizes the same syntax and principles as React, any JavaScript library that is compatible with React should also work with React Native technology.
  • Code Reusability
In React Native, there’s no need to create separate codes for different operating systems (Android and iOS). One can reuse more than 70% of codes between these two platforms, resulting in increased development speed and efficiency. You can even achieve faster time-to-market.
  • Third-Party Plugin Integration
React Native allows many third-party plugin integrations, such as JavaScript and native modules. This integration eradicates the requirement for specific webView functions. It ensures reduced app development time and enhanced functionality and performance.
  • Great App Performance
React Native offers a Native-like feel and appearance. Its useful features, like hot-reloading, extended web support, etc., ensure the swift and incredible performance of the app. However, it’s important to hire React Native developers with specific skill sets to achieve top-notch outcomes.

Steps to Migrate Your Android & Ios Apps to React Native

Step-1: Maven Configuration

To build an app with React Native, you must configure Maven first. It requires incorporating React Native and Javascript dependencies into the Libraries that are build.gradle files. Then, run the code. You can add a layer of Javascript Maven Directories and React Native to ‘all projects’> Android/build.gradle. Make sure your entered path is correct.

Step-2: Install Native Modules

Firstly, identify the native module you want to install. Then, enable auto-linking of this module. It is done through two aspects: making an entry to setting.gradle and posting this to the app/build.gradle.

Step-3: Get Permissions

Get Internet access permissions. You can visit AndroidManifest.xml in the Android studio. This file contains all the essential information about an application, such as Application Icon details, Application name, and activities. Then, an app must publicize the permissions. Similarly, get permissions for iOS apps as well.

Step-4: Clear Text Traffic

Before integrating code, it is vital to clean the text traffic. On Android version 9, clear text traffic is disabled by default. You can override this behavior by setting android:usesCleartextTraffic in the app manifest file.

Step-5: React Native Code Integration

For code integration, you need to follow a few simple steps:
  • Develop an index.js file
  • Integrate React Native Code
  • Seek permission for development error overlay
  • Render JS component
The Dev menu will get activated by default, which is not in emulators. You can use ctrl+M to implement Javascript code for testing.

Step-6: App Testing

Just like any other app testing, it’s essential to run the test to check the app’s performance. Make sure it’s functioning as intended and like a real React Native app. For this purpose, the tester uses Metro Builder to create an index.bundle file. Finally, run the packager and then the app. Upon running the app, the converted code must load the JavaScript from the server and exhibit the desired results.

Why Choose Ais Technolabs for App Migration to React Native?

AIS Technolabs has a pre-vetted team to convert Android and iOS apps to React Native using an agile methodology. Our React Native developers have the potential to meet the modern-day challenges that businesses face and find innovative yet customer-centric solutions.

Here’s what we can do for you-
  • Cross-platform app development assistance
  • Rapid and budget-friendly services
  • Third-party integrations for improved performance
  • Develop reusable code
  • Quick change implementation

Conclusion

React Native is a prevalent framework that helps people acquire well-performing apps. If you desire to convert your apps using this technology, the above steps can help you. The framework’s cross-platform compatibility, access to a rich JavaScript library, code reusability, and third-party plugin integration make it the right choice for businesses looking to enter the online market.

Experts at AIS Technolabs are proficient in developing apps as per your specific requirements. Whether you want to convert your app or need to upgrade it, we can help!

FAQs

Ans.
It’s an open-source framework that provides access to a huge JS library to simplify complex tasks. Products created using React Native will operate on different platforms, like iOS, Android, macOS, tvOS, etc.

Ans.
Yes, this well-known cross-platform app development framework supports the latest versions of Android and iOS.

Ans.
It basically depends upon the project scope, functionalities, and features you need. Also, the app development company you choose for assistance.

Ans.
There are numerous developers in the marketplace; you should select the one considering the developer’s experience, skills, and the number of projects they have completed. Seek their React Native portfolio for better insights.
James Smith
James Smith

Brand Marketing Manager

James Smith, a seasoned Brand Marketing Manager with over six years of experience, excels in crafting and executing strategic marketing initiatives. With a keen understanding of consumer behavior and market trends, he effectively builds and enhances brand identities. James's expertise lies in developing comprehensive marketing strategies that resonate with target audiences, driving engagement and loyalty. His extensive experience and innovative approach make him a valuable asset in achieving brand objectives and driving business growth.