Cross-Platform TV Apps with React Native for tvOS, Android TV, and Tizen
Article Summary
Callstack just dropped their Ultimate Guide to React Native TV Development 2026. If you're building streaming apps, this changes the game for cross-platform TV.
Callstack has published a comprehensive resource on building React Native apps for TV platforms including tvOS, Android TV, and Tizen. The guide comes alongside their expanded content library covering everything from testing strategies to Amazon's new Vega OS with React Native built in.
Key Takeaways
- Single React Native codebase now targets tvOS, Android TV, and Tizen platforms
- Custom testing helpers needed for D-pad navigation in TV apps
- Amazon's Vega OS ships with React Native built directly into the operating system
- TV development requires different architecture patterns than mobile apps
Critical Insight
React Native has matured into a production-ready solution for building cross-platform TV apps, with major players like Amazon and DIRECTV already shipping at scale.
