IntroductionPrerequisites
Required tools
You need the following installed on your machine to build your app.
1. Node.js
💡 Node.js is a JavaScript runtime that allows you to run JavaScript on your computer or server outside of a web browser.
- Download the installer from nodejs.org (LTS recommended) and run it.
- Follow the installer steps
- Check installation:
bash
2. Git
💡 Git is a version control system used to track changes in code and collaborate safely with others.
- Download the installer from git-scm.com and run it.
- During installation, keep the default options (they are suitable for most users).
- Check installation:
bash
3. Cursor
💡 Cursor is an AI-powered code editor that helps you write, understand, and refactor code faster directly from your codebase.
- Download the installer from cursor.com and run it.
- Create an account.
Mobile environment
You have two options to run the app.
Option A — Real device (recommended)
- Install Expo Go
- iOS: App Store
- Android: Play Store
This is the fastest way to preview your app.
Option B — Simulator / Emulator
iOS
- macOS only
- Install Xcode
- Make sure iOS Simulator is available
- For more information check the expo documentation
Android
- Install Android Studio
- Create and run an Android emulator
- For more information check the expo documentation
Store accounts (only for submission)
You don’t need these immediately, but you will need them to release your app on the stores:
- Apple Developer account
- Google Play Developer account
Optional accounts (only if you enable the feature)
All SDKs are already wired. You only need these when you want the functionality:
- Supabase (database + auth)
- RevenueCat and/or Superwall (monetization)
- Amplitude and/or PostHog (analytics)
- Sentry (error tracking)
- OpenAI (AI features)
Environment variables rule (important)
- Rename
.env.examplein.env. - Add keys only for the SDKs you want.
- Missing key = feature stays off.
This is the default workflow: ship a minimal app first, then progressively enable services.