Why React Native and Expo Router?

React Native is a popular choice for building cross-platform apps due to its efficiency and native-like performance. Expo Router simplifies navigation, making it an excellent choice for static apps with well-defined routes.

Tools and Technologies Used

• React Native: For building the core app.
• Typescript: Ensures type safety and better code maintainability.
• Expo and Expo Router: Simplifies development and routing.
• MMKV: High-performance key-value storage.
• Figma: For translating design mockups into UI components.

Steps to Build the App

1. Set Up the Development Environment

• Install Node.js, React Native CLI, and Expo CLI.
• Create the project with expo init and choose the TypeScript template.

2. Define the App Structure

• Use Expo Router to define static routes.
• Follow a folder structure like this:
  
  bash

  /pages
├── index.tsx (Home Screen)
├── about.tsx
└── settings.tsx


3. Implement MMKV for Storage

• Install the MMKV package:
  
  bas

  npm install react-native-mmkv

• Use MMKV to store lightweight data, such as user preferences or session tokens:
  
   

  import { MMKV } from 'react-native-mmkv';
const storage = new MMKV();
storage.set('theme', 'dark');


4. Translate Figma Designs

• Create reusable UI components to match the Figma designs, ensuring consistency and scalability.

5. Test on Devices

• Use Expo Go for real-time testing during development.

Challenges and How I Overcame Them

1. Navigation Complexity
   Expo Router simplifies static route management but can be tricky with dynamic routes. Carefully map out routes to ensure seamless navigation.

2. Performance Issues with Storage
   MMKV is fast but requires proper key management. Avoid excessive storage operations during rendering to maintain app performance.

3. Responsive Design
   Translating Figma designs into a fully responsive app took multiple iterations. Tools like react-native-responsive-dimensions helped ensure adaptability across devices.

Best Practices

1. Modular Code: Break components into smaller, reusable pieces for better maintainability.
2. State Management: Use Context API or MMKV for lightweight state needs.
3. Consistent Testing: Regularly test on both Android and iOS devices to catch platform-specific issues early.

Final Thoughts

Building a static mobile app with React Native and Expo Router is an efficient way to deliver high-quality apps. With the right tools and a structured approach, you can create robust and visually appealing applications.

I hope this guide inspires you to dive into mobile app development. Feel free to contact us.