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Android Development Setup

Set up your development environment to build and run React Native applications on Android devices and emulators.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following installed:
  • Node.js (^20.19.4 || ^22.13.0 || ^24.3.0 || >= 25.0.0)
  • Java Development Kit (JDK) 17 or newer
  • Android Studio
  • Android SDK

Installing Android Studio

1

Download Android Studio

Download and install Android Studio from developer.android.com.
2

Install Android SDK

During installation, make sure the following components are selected:
  • Android SDK
  • Android SDK Platform
  • Android Virtual Device (AVD)
3

Configure SDK Manager

Open Android Studio, go to Settings > Appearance & Behavior > System Settings > Android SDK.Install the following SDK tools:
  • Android SDK Platform 35 or higher
  • Android SDK Build-Tools
  • Android SDK Platform-Tools
  • Android SDK Command-line Tools

Environment Variables

Configure your environment variables to point to the Android SDK:

Gradle Configuration

React Native uses Gradle as its build system. The main configuration is in android/build.gradle:

Key Gradle Properties

Configure your gradle.properties file:

Android Manifest Configuration

Your AndroidManifest.xml requires specific permissions and configurations:

MainApplication Configuration

Implement the ReactApplication interface in your main application class:

Running on Android

1

Start Metro bundler

2

Run on device or emulator

Common Build Issues

Gradle Sync Failed

If Gradle sync fails, try:

SDK Version Mismatch

Ensure your compileSdkVersion matches the installed SDK:

Native Modules Cache

Clear React Native cache:

Next Steps