How Does Converting an App to React Native Improve Performance

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Written by :Balaj Hussain

23/02/2025

How Does Converting an App to React Native Improve Performance?

The guide demonstrates the process to convert mobile apps between Android and iOS to React Native format through runtime migration methods alongside advantages and technical obstacles. The development process for cross-platform apps using React Native becomes more simplified through Devocra to deliver both performance excellence and efficient development capabilities.

Step-by-Step Guide to Converting an Android & iOS App to React Native

Developer popularity of React Native arises from its capability to generate applications that work across platforms while using one code base. Numerous businesses together with developers choose to move their native Android and iOS apps to React Native to achieve both faster development times and unified app experiences. The following guide demonstrates how you can successfully perform native application conversion into React Native.

What is React Native?

The framework known as React Native supports developers to construct native-like applications through the combination of JavaScript with React programming. The native Android and iOS components engage directly with React Native without using traditional web-based frameworks which results in seamless and high-performance use. As a UI development framework React Native matches certain main aspects of React while working with native OS components instead of web-based elements.
React Native uses a JavaScript bridge as its communication pathway to native programming modules. The JavaScript bridge enables native platform interaction for React Native thus establishing itself as an advanced mobile application development solution.

Why Choose React Native for App Conversion?

Benefits of React Native:

  • Code Reusability: Write one codebase and deploy it on both Android and iOS.
  • Faster Development: Pre-built components and libraries speed up the development process.
  • Strong Community Support: Backed by Facebook and an active developer community.
  • Cost-Effective: Reduces development costs by eliminating the need for separate native teams.
  • Hot Reloading: Allows developers to see real-time changes without restarting the app.

For businesses looking to enhance their mobile applications, React Native offers a flexible and scalable solution.

How to Migrate a Native Android & iOS App to React Native

Converting a current app needs strategic preparation for smooth application migration. The following list contains steps which lead to successful native app conversion into React Native format.

  • Step 1: Setup and Planning
    You should evaluate the current application before starting the migration process while defining the scope of transformation. Determine whether direct conversion applies to each section of your app along with areas needing modifications.

    Key Considerations

    • ●  Choose between a full migration or a partial hybrid approach.
    • ●  Assess compatibility of third-party native modules.
    • ●  Identify reusable UI components.
  • Step 2: Initialize the React Native Project
    Create a new React Native project using the following command:
    npx react-native init MyNewApp
    This initializes a new React Native environment with all necessary dependencies.
  • Step 3: Set Up Native Dependencies
    If your existing app uses native libraries, configure React Native’s package manager (npm or yarn) to install the required dependencies. For example:
    yarn add react-native-vector-icons react-navigation
    Additionally, link native modules using:
    npx react-native link
  • Step 4: Implement UI Components
    Begin by recreating your app’s UI using React Native components. Use View, Text, Image, and TouchableOpacity to build interfaces.
    import React from 'react';
import { View, Text, StyleSheet } from 'react-native';

const WelcomeScreen = () => {
  return (
    <View style={styles.container}>
      <Text style={styles.title}>Welcome to React Native</Text>
    </View>
  );
};

const styles = StyleSheet.create({
  container: { flex: 1, justifyContent: 'center', alignItems: 'center' },
  title: { fontSize: 24, fontWeight: 'bold' }
});

export default WelcomeScreen;
  • Step 5: Configure Navigation
    React Native offers navigation libraries such as React Navigation and React Native Navigation. Install and set up navigation based on your app's needs:
    yarn add @react-navigation/native @react-navigation/stack
  • Step 6: Integrate API Services
    If your app interacts with an API, use fetch or libraries like Axios to make HTTP requests:
    import axios from 'axios';
const fetchData = async () => {
  const response = await axios.get('https://api.example.com/data');
  console.log(response.data);
};
  • Step 7: Optimize Performance
    Performance optimization is crucial during migration. Follow these best practices:
    • ●  Use FlatList instead of ScrollView for long lists.
    • ●  Optimize images and assets.
    • ●  Use native drivers for animations (useNativeDriver: true).
  • Step 8: Test on Multiple Devices
    Use emulators and real devices to test your app’s performance across platforms:
    npx react-native run-android
npx react-native run-ios
    Ensure the UI is consistent and functionality remains intact.
  • Step 9: Set Up Splash Screen and App Icon
    To enhance user experience, add a splash screen and configure the app icon using:
    yarn add react-native-splash-screen react-native-vector-icons
    Follow platform-specific guidelines to set up icons for both Android and iOS.
  • Step 10: Deployment to App Stores
    Once testing is complete, prepare your app for deployment.

    For Google Play Store:

    • ●  Generate an APK or AAB file using:
      gradlew bundleRelease
    • ●  Follow Google Play Store submission guidelines.

    For Apple App Store:

    • ●  Archive and sign the app using Xcode.
    • ●  Submit the app via App Store Connect.

Conclusion

Migrating a native Android and iOS app to React Native requires structured planning and execution. With the ability to reuse code and speed up development, React Native is a powerful framework for cross-platform app development.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can successfully transition your app, optimize performance, and leverage the advantages of React Native. Whether you're a startup or an enterprise, React Native provides the flexibility and efficiency needed for modern mobile applications.

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