What’s New in React Native App Development in 2025

May 28, 2025
7 Min
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React Native is the open-source app development software, owned by Meta. Trusted by huge names including Facebook, Microsoft and Amazon, it’s no wonder so many businesses and developers are keen to expand their digital presence with React Native as their tool of choice.

Read here for the latest updates from the world of React Native, and what we might expect to see in the rest of 2025.

React Native 0.79 is here

React Native’s latest version released in April 2025 (at the time of writing), and has brought with it a list of improvements and changes for developers.

Metro, the system React Native uses to build JavaScript code and asset, has had several bug fixes and speed improvements, while the Javascript Core (JSC) is in the process of transferring to a community maintained package, though is still available through React Native Core at the moment.

React Native’s latest release also introduces notable improvements for both iOS and Android developers.

On iOS, registering Native Modules just got easier and more aligned with how components are defined. Developers can now declare modules directly in their package.json file using a new modulesProvider field. This is especially helpful for Swift apps using pure C++ modules, all without touching the AppDelegate.

On the Android side, startup performance has received a significant boost. By default, JavaScript bundles are no longer compressed in the APK, removing a key bottleneck during app launch. Testing on the Discord app (fully built in React Native) saw a 400ms improvement in time-to-interactive (TTI). Developers can still opt in to compression via a Gradle flag if storage is a concern.

Who is using React Native in 2025?

As more businesses expand their digital ecosystem into the app space, it’s no surprise to hear that some of the most well-known and successful business in the world rely on React Native for their app’s development.

These include;

  • Pinterest
  • Discord
  • Tesla
  • NFL
  • Playstation
  • Coinbase
  • Microsoft
  • Meta

With so many big names making use if React Native, developers can be assured that support and functionality is readily available, no matter what size business or scope they are working with.

React Native’s New Architecture

Previously, React Native relied on an asynchronous bridge to manage communication between JavaScript and native modules. While this avoided blocking the main thread, it introduced performance bottlenecks, delayed updates, and UI glitches, especially during high-frequency interactions. The old system struggled to maintain 60+ FPS reliably and often caused visual inconsistencies due to synchronisation issues between JavaScript and native layers.

React Native’s new architecture marks a major evolution, fundamentally rewriting how core systems interact with native platforms. Moving away from the traditional asynchronous bridge, the update introduces a more responsive, synchronous approach that enhances performance, reliability, and user experience.

The new architecture resolves these challenges through four key innovations: a revamped native module system, a new renderer, a reengineered event loop, and the complete removal of the asynchronous bridge. These enhancements enable synchronous and asynchronous communication, support concurrent rendering, and improve error handling.

This overhaul provides a smoother, more native-like experience and is already being used for apps like Meta Quest. With improved support for complex gestures, animations, and multiple input types, React Native’s modernised framework is paving the way for responsive, high-performance applications across devices.

Why should businesses consider Reactive Native for their app?

Developers tasked with expanding their business’ mobile infrastructure and reach new markets need a tool that is reliable, scalable and able to achieve their stakeholders’ vision.

React Native remains one of the most viable choices for developers looking to create a new app, here’s why:

1. Fast Development Time
React Native allows developers to reuse UI elements across platforms, significantly reducing development time. This allows businesses to set realistic time frames and stay ahead of the competition, by getting to market faster. Ideal for startups and enterprises looking to impress customers and shareholders alike. 

2. Cost-Effective App Development
Businesses see a huge saving using React Native compared to other platform, thanks to its single codebase across iOS and Android. Budget need no longer be an issue for businesses looking to expand.

3. Scalable and Flexible:
React Native integrates smoothly with native code, allowing businesses to expand and enhance features without needing a complete rebuild. This makes it easy to adapt as user needs and product goals evolve.

4. Backed by Industry Leaders:
As mentioned, some of the most successful companies in the world rely on React Native for their app capabilities. Being maintained by Meta and supported by a large open-source community, React Native benefits from continuous updates, strong documentation, and a wealth of third-party tools. Once you choose React, few go back.

How do I get started with React Native?

Looking for an app design concept that impresses your decision makers? Or need a full development team to assist with your app vision? Atomic Digital Marketing have a wealth of experience in designing and developing apps that take businesses ahead of the competition.

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Simon Alnaimi
Senior Digital Marketing Manager and Account Manager

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