app-store-deployment-guide

name	app-store-deployment-guide
description	To prepare, build, and submit React Native applications to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store using EAS Build (Expo Application Services). Use when: When the app is ready for beta testing (TestFlight/Internal Testing) or production release; When generating standalone binaries (.ipa, .aab).

Purpose

To prepare, build, and submit React Native applications to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store using EAS Build (Expo Application Services).

When to Use

• When the app is ready for beta testing (TestFlight/Internal Testing) or production release.
• When generating standalone binaries (.ipa, .aab).

Procedure

1. Configuration (EAS)

1. Install EAS CLI: npm install -g eas-cli.
2. Login: eas login.
3. Configure: eas build:configure. This creates eas.json.

2. App Signing (Credentials)

• Android: Need a Keystore. EAS can generate and manage this automatically.
• iOS: Need an Apple Developer Account ($99/yr). EAS manages Certificates and Provisioning Profiles.

3. Building

1. Update Version: Check version and android.versionCode / ios.buildNumber in app.json.
2. Run Build:

   eas build --platform all --profile production
   

   • This uploads code to Expo servers, builds the binary, and returns a download link.

4. Submission (EAS Submit)

Automate the upload to stores.

1. Run Submit:

   eas submit --platform all
   

2. Follow Prompts: Select the build to submit.

5. Store Metadata

• Go to App Store Connect / Google Play Console.
• Fill in descriptions, screenshots, privacy policy, and rating questionnaire.
• Select the build uploaded by EAS and submit for review.

Constraints

• Review Guidelines: Ensure the app complies with Apple/Google policies (e.g., no hidden features, functional UI).
• Waiting Times: Apple review takes 24-48h; Google takes 1-3 days (sometimes longer for new accounts).

Expected Output

A successful build uploaded to TestFlight (iOS) and Internal Testing (Android), ready for distribution.