What is React Native?

In software development, a framework serves as a platform for developing applications. React Native is an open-source framework, meaning it’s free for public use. It contains resources like pre-built components, libraries, and reference material. Like the framework of a home, React Native provides the basic structure of an application. Developers can then customize it to suit their needs rather than building the application from the ground up.

What does “native” mean in React Native?

When an application or software is native, it’s written for the computer’s natural operating system (OS). For example, a Playstation 5 game can be run natively on a Playstation 5 because it was designed for that specific device and OS. Native-run applications and native code typically perform better and faster because they were created to suit their particular platforms. React Native enables you to render applications natively. In other words, your application will use the same programming platform as a native application, despite not being specially created for that device. 

React Native vs. React

React is a JavaScript library. It’s also referred to as ReactJS or React.js. Like React Native, it provides developers with building blocks for development, such as pre-written code and configurations. Unlike React Native, those building blocks are web components rather than native components. When used together, React.js and React Native complement one another. The chart below explores some similarities and differences between React and React Native.

What is React Native for?

 

React Native is most famous for its cross-platform development capabilities. Cross-platform development refers to the process of building software that is compatible with more than one type of device and OS. With React Native, developers can create platform-specific versions of components. Instead of building applications natively for each platform, developers can build their codebase just once and use it for both iOS and Android applications. Additional React Native features include

• Community. ReactJS and React Native both have large communities of developers and tech experts. For example, you can ask questions and share insights on the Reactiflux Discord channel or attend a React Native Meetup.

• App performance. React Native enables applications to behave like native applications, which run faster and more efficiently than their non-native counterparts. 

• Code reusability. Code reusability is a key advantage of React Native. In addition to cost efficiency, reusing large amounts of code allows for faster development overall.