Over-the-air updates (EAS Update) in React Native - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is an Over-the-Air (OTA) update in mobile apps?

An OTA update lets you send app changes directly to users without them downloading a new version from the app store. It updates the app code or assets remotely.

beginner

What does EAS stand for in the context of Expo updates?

EAS stands for Expo Application Services. It provides tools to build, submit, and update React Native apps, including OTA updates.

intermediate

How does EAS Update improve the app update process?

EAS Update allows developers to push JavaScript and asset changes instantly to users without waiting for app store approval, making updates faster and smoother.

intermediate

What is a key limitation of OTA updates like EAS Update?

OTA updates can only change JavaScript and assets, not native code. For native code changes, a full app store update is still needed.

advanced

Name one best practice when using EAS Update in production apps.

Test updates thoroughly before pushing to all users, and use release channels to control which users get which updates to avoid breaking the app.

What type of app changes can EAS Update deliver over-the-air?

A JavaScript code and assets

B Native code changes

C App store metadata

D User data

EAS Update can only deliver JavaScript code and assets. Native code changes require a full app store update.

Why are OTA updates faster than app store updates?

A They use smaller files

B They bypass app store review

C They update only user data

D They require user approval

OTA updates bypass the app store review process, allowing instant delivery of code changes.

Which Expo service helps manage OTA updates?

A Expo Router

B Expo CLI

C Expo Snack

D EAS Update

EAS Update is the Expo service designed for managing over-the-air updates.

What should you do before releasing an OTA update to all users?

A Test on a release channel

B Delete user data

C Change native code

D Skip testing

Testing on a release channel helps ensure the update works well before wide release.

If you change native code, how do you update the app?

A Use EAS Update

B Send a push notification

C Submit a new app store version

D Clear app cache

Native code changes require submitting a new version through the app store.

Explain how EAS Update works and why it is useful for React Native apps.

Think about what parts of the app can change without a full app store release.

Describe best practices to safely use OTA updates in a production app.

Consider how to avoid problems for users when updating the app remotely.