How do I run an app on a real iOS device using Expo?

Question

I am using Expo to run my application. I am able to see two options in Expo XDE:

1. open on iOS simulator
2. open on Android

I want to run my app by directly connecting to my device. Is it possible with Expo?

Answer 1

If you are looking to run a native build without using Expo Go on a physical iOS device (not a simulator), you can plug in your device to your computer by cable and use the following code:

npx expo run:ios --device

This is useful in cases when you need to test notifications, native code, etc.

Alternatively, if you're using yarn, try:

yarn expo run:ios --device

Answer 2

As the Expo Client App is updated due to new Apple's approval requirements, please follow the steps below to launch the App in a real iOS device:

1. Connect both your computer and your iOS device with same Wi-Fi
2. In Expo XDE, select Host > LAN (please refer to eden's answer)
3. Open MobileSafari in your iOS device. Type the URL shown in Expo XDE (should be something like exp://192.168.123.123:19000). Alternatively, you can click "Share" button in Expo XDE to show a QR Code. Use Camera App in iOS (iOS 11+) or any QR code reader (iOS 9 & 10) to scan the QR Code.
4. MobileSafari, or your QR code reader / Camera App, will ask if you want to launch the App in Expo Client App, select "Yes"
5. Your project will be loaded accordingly.

Hope it helps.

Answer 3

Yes, it is possible, and quite easy to get it running.

Step 1: Open Expo XDE, and click on the gray cog to change host mode to LAN. Make sure you enabled Development Mode. You'll see an URL right in front of you. Wait until packager to start running.

Step 2: Open Expo App in your mobile device, and click on the second tab 'Explore' and enter the URL that starts with exp://192.168... This is a local connection to your computer. You will see your app running in a minute.

Make sure your phone and computer are on the same WiFi!

For further information, you may refer to official documents here.