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The init command creates a new React Native project with all necessary files and dependencies.

Usage

As of React Native 0.77+, the init command is deprecated. Use npx @react-native-community/cli init instead.

Arguments

Options

Examples

Basic Project Creation

This creates a new project named “MyApp” with:
  • Latest stable React Native version
  • Default TypeScript template
  • All dependencies installed

Specific Version

Custom Template

Custom Package Name (Android)

Skip Dependency Installation

Useful when you want to modify package.json before installing.

Use npm Instead of Yarn

Project Structure

After running init, your project will have this structure:

After Initialization

1

Navigate to project

2

Install iOS dependencies (macOS only)

Skip this if you used --install-pods (default).
3

Start Metro

4

Run your app

Templates

Official Templates

  • Default - TypeScript template with best practices
  • react-native-template-typescript - TypeScript template

Community Templates

You can use any npm package as a template:

Environment Variables

Skip Installation

Custom Registry

Troubleshooting

Permission Errors

If you encounter permission errors:

Network Timeouts

Increase npm timeout:

CocoaPods Installation Fails

Manually install pods:

Watchman Issues

Clear Watchman cache:

Migration Note

Starting with React Native 0.77, npx react-native init is deprecated.Use the Community CLI instead:
Or use alternative frameworks:

Next Steps

Quick Start

Complete tutorial for your first app

Start Command

Learn how to start the development server

Run iOS

Build and run on iOS devices

Run Android

Build and run on Android devices