Check Network Setup First
Before installing, make sure:
- Your computer and phone are on the same Wi-Fi network
- Your firewall isn’t blocking the Expo server (allow Node.js if prompted)
- Your antivirus isn’t blocking local connections
- Your Wi-Fi is set to “Private” network (not “Public”)
1
Install the App
After the build completes:
- Scan the QR code from the EAS dashboard or terminal
- Tap “Open with iTunes” when it appears in the Camera app
- Confirm installation when prompted
2
Enable Developer Mode
If you’re using iOS 16 or newer, you’ll need to enable Developer Mode on your iPhone to run development builds.
- Open Settings > Privacy & Security
- Scroll down and tap Developer Mode
- Toggle the switch to enable it
- Tap Restart in the security warning
- After restart, unlock your device
- Tap Turn On in the confirmation alert
- Enter your device passcode
For additional help, see Expo’s iOS Setup Guide
1
Start the Server
Start the development server:
2
Connect Your Device
- Open the app on your device
- Tap the profile icon in the top right
- Log in to your Expo account
- Tap “Fetch development servers”
- Select your server from the list
App Not Connecting?
App Not Connecting?
Common Solutions
-
Check Server Status
- Make sure
npx expo startis running - Look for any error messages in the terminal
- Try stopping and restarting the server
- Make sure
-
Network Issues
- Confirm both devices show the same Wi-Fi name
- Try using your phone as a hotspot instead
- Check if your network is set to “Private” in Windows
-
Security Blocks
- Watch for firewall popups about Node.js or Expo
- Check antivirus logs for blocked connections
- Try temporarily disabling firewall/antivirus to test
Use Tunnel Mode
If you’re on a restricted network or the above doesn’t help:- Install ngrok with admin privileges:
- Start the tunnel:
- Scan the new QR code that appears
Note: Tunnel mode is slower than a direct connection, so try to use the same network when possible.