Improving React Native Apps with Continuous Integration
Article Summary
Mike Grabowski explores why having tests isn't enough. Without CI, you're missing the feedback loop that catches regressions before they ship.
This practical guide breaks down how Continuous Integration transforms React Native development from a testing practice into a reliable deployment system. Grabowski compares major CI providers and walks through real implementation strategies for mobile teams.
Key Takeaways
- CI creates single source of truth by verifying changes automatically in real-time
- CircleCI uses commands, jobs, and workflows with parallel execution support
- EAS Build lets you build iOS apps from Windows or Linux machines
- Three EAS profiles: development (local), preview (testing), production (store submission)
- EAS provides pre-configured environments with built-in caching out of the box
Critical Insight
CI turns your test suite into an automated safety net that catches regressions early, but choosing the right provider depends on whether you need generic flexibility or mobile-specific features.
