Environment Setup for React Native CLI

Prerequisites and System Requirements

Industry Cloud Platforms are purpose-built cloud environments that offer services taiBefore diving into setup, make sure your system meets the following baseline requirements.

Node.js & npm

Install the latest LTS version of Node.js (v20 or higher). npm comes bundled with Node.js.

Java Development Kit (JDK)

Use JDK 17 or later for compatibility with the latest Android Gradle plugin.

Android Studio

Install Android Studio Hedgehog or newer, which includes updated emulators and SDK tools.

Xcode (macOS only)

To build iOS apps, Xcode 15+ is required on macOS systems.

CocoaPods (macOS)

Used to manage iOS native libraries. Install via RubyGems.

Watchman (macOS)

A file watcher required by React Native for optimal performance.

React Native CLI depends on several core tools to function correctly.

Download from https://nodejs.org and verify with:

node -v
npm -v

Installing Core Dependencies

Instead of installing globally

npx react-native@latest init MyApp

Installing Java JDK

Install JDK 17 and configure the JAVA_HOME environment variable properly

Installing Watchman (macOS)

brew install watchman

Installing Python (Linux)

sudo apt install python3

Setting Up Android Development Environment

For Android app development, proper SDK and emulator configuration is essential.

Install Android Studio

Download from developer.android.com, then install these components:

• Android SDK
• Emulator
• SDK Build Tools
• NDK (if needed)

Configure Android SDK Paths

Set environment variables:

ANDROID_HOME=<your-sdk-path>
export PATH=$PATH:$ANDROID_HOME/emulator
export PATH=$PATH:$ANDROID_HOME/platform-tools

Create Android Virtual Device (AVD)

Use the AVD Manager in Android Studio to create a virtual device for testing.

Enable Developer Mode on Android Device

If testing on a real device, enable USB debugging and install proper drivers.

Setting Up iOS Development Environment (macOS Only)

iOS development is only supported on macOS with Xcode.

Install Xcode

Download from the App Store, then install command-line tools:

xcode-select --install

Install CocoaPods

Use RubyGems:

sudo gem install cocoapods

Configure iOS Simulator

Use Xcode to launch and manage various iOS simulators. Enable Permissions

Ensure macOS allows terminal and simulator permissions to avoid build failures.

Running and Testing Your First App

Once everything is set up, create and run your first React Native project.

Create a New App

Use:

npx react-native init FirstApp

Start Metro Bundler

In the project directory:

npx react-native start

Run on Android

Ensure an emulator or device is connected:

npx react-native run-android

Run on iOS (macOS Only)

Start the iOS simulator:

npx react-native run-ios

Optional Tools and Tips (2025)

Boost your React Native workflow with these optional tools and tips.

Use Flipper for Debugging

Flipper is integrated with React Native by default and helps debug apps visually.

Enable Hermes Engine

For performance improvements, enable Hermes in android/app/build.gradle.

Use ESLint + Prettier

Improve code quality with integrated linting and formatting.

Use VS Code with Extensions

Install React Native Tools extension for debugging and IntelliSense.

Use React Native Doctor

Diagnose setup issues:

npx react-native doctor

Conclusion

Setting up the React Native CLI environment may seem complex at first, but it’s a critical foundation for building high-quality, production-ready mobile applications. With the latest updates in 2025 like React Native v0.74+, Node.js v20+, Android Studio Hedgehog, and Xcode 15 developers now have more powerful and stable tools at their disposal. By carefully following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be fully equipped to develop for both Android and iOS platforms using native modules, advanced debugging tools, and custom configurations. Once set up, React Native CLI provides unmatched flexibility, speed, and control for modern app development