In this week’s episode, we explore the latest updates and trends in the React Native world—and beyond:
🚀 What’s New:
🎯 Also in this episode:
🚀 Learn React Native: https://galaxies.dev/missions/zero-to-hero
🔥 Weekly Videos -> https://www.youtube.com/@galaxies_dev
❤️ Socials
👨💻 Apps
🔗 Links
The AppJS took place and there's a lot to learn from the amazing talks about the current state of React Native and its future. From frozen architecture to React Native news and new packages, we dive into everything in this episode!
Also in this episode:
- Why Simon is killing his app
- My next clone project
🚀 Learn React Native: https://galaxies.dev/missions/zero-to-hero
🔥 Weekly Videos
https://www.youtube.com/@galaxies_dev
❤️ Socials
https://x.com/schlimmson
https://www.tiktok.com/@simongrimm_
https://www.linkedin.com/in/simongr
https://bsky.app/profile/galaxies.dev
👨💻 Apps
Matrix Manager: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/matrix-manager-task-manager/id6739463021
Quick Track: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quick-track-calorie-counter/id1669892980
Text to Voice AI: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/text-to-voice-ai-reader/id6739965632
Healthy Food Swap: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/healthy-food-swap/id6743627410
🔗 Links
AppJS Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/live/K2JTTKpptGs
ReactRaptor: https://expo.dev/blog/which-android-apps-are-built-with-expo
Expo PencilKit UI: https://github.com/tarikfp/expo-pencilkit-ui
While the AppJS is about to kick off, we talk about some cool new packages and updates around Reanimated and a new solution for local-first apps!
Also in this episode:
- New React Native Essentials
- Apple still doesn't like my app
- New Expo Router v5 Course
- Are you VibeCoding?
🚀 Learn React Native: https://galaxies.dev/missions/zero-to-hero
🔥 Weekly Videos
https://www.youtube.com/@galaxies_dev
❤️ Socials
https://x.com/schlimmson
https://www.tiktok.com/@simongrimm_
https://www.linkedin.com/in/simongr
https://bsky.app/profile/galaxies.dev
👨💻 Apps
Matrix Manager: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/matrix-manager-task-manager/id6739463021
Quick Track: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quick-track-calorie-counter/id1669892980
Text to Voice AI: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/text-to-voice-ai-reader/id6739965632
Healthy Food Swap: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/healthy-food-swap/id6743627410
🔗 Links
Reanimated Beta 4: https://github.com/software-mansion/react-native-reanimated/releases/tag/4.0.0-beta.4
AppJS: https://appjs.co/
LiveStore: https://livestore.dev/
Expo Router 5 Course: https://galaxies.dev/course/expo-router-5-rsc/1-1
React Native Better DevTools: https://github.com/LovesWorking/rn-better-dev-tools
No big news besides the RC of React Native 0.80, which gives us time to talk about the current version hell for React Native developers, and a great new Expo DevTool for everyone using TanStack Query!
Also in this episode:
- RSCs are underrated
- Preview of Dead Simple Invoice App
- Apple doesn't like my app
- Open Water Swimming & Cold Water Shock
🚀 Learn React Native: https://galaxies.dev/missions/zero-to-hero
🔥 Weekly Videos
https://www.youtube.com/@galaxies_dev
❤️ Socials
https://x.com/schlimmson
https://www.tiktok.com/@simongrimm_
https://www.linkedin.com/in/simongr
https://bsky.app/profile/galaxies.dev
👨💻 Apps
Matrix Manager: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/matrix-manager-task-manager/id6739463021
Quick Track: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quick-track-calorie-counter/id1669892980
Text to Voice AI: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/text-to-voice-ai-reader/id6739965632
Healthy Food Swap: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/healthy-food-swap/id6743627410
🔗 Links
React Native 0.80 rc2: https://github.com/facebook/react-native/blob/main/CHANGELOG.md
TanStack Query DevTools: https://github.com/TanStack/query/pull/8846
React Native Better DevTools: https://github.com/LovesWorking/rn-better-dev-tools
React Native Essentials - Drawer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65xmaJNpZVY
Expo Router v5 was released, which dramatically improves authentication flows and finally allows to use RSC in production - although still in beta. Beyond that William Candillon shared epic updates about Skia and WebGPU, making even more powerful React Native apps possible in the future.
Also in this episode:
- Galaxies Lifetime pricing with one-time payment
- Receiving Feedback on Podcast & Apps
- Sharing my next app projects
- Flutter devs love React Native
🚀 Learn React Native: https://galaxies.dev/missions/zero-to-hero
🔥 Weekly Videos
https://www.youtube.com/@galaxies_dev
❤️ Socials
https://x.com/schlimmson
https://www.tiktok.com/@simongrimm_
https://www.linkedin.com/in/simongr
https://bsky.app/profile/galaxies.dev
👨💻 Apps
Matrix Manager: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/matrix-manager-task-manager/id6739463021
Quick Track: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quick-track-calorie-counter/id1669892980
Text to Voice AI: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/text-to-voice-ai-reader/id6739965632
Healthy Food Swap: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/healthy-food-swap/id6743627410
🔗 Links
Expon Router v5: https://expo.dev/blog/expo-router-v5
Shared Element Transitions: https://x.com/BBloniarz_/status/1919390653856829566
Skia Announcement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9t-VXwIc4I
Apple punishing apps? https://x.com/maric_viktor/status/1922006170601939221
Khalids Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wH5gnjrs_pI
Expo SDK 53 was released after a short beta with many great new features, there are new AI packages for React Native to talk about and meanwhile Apple lost an important lawsuit that allows developers to make 30% more money with their apps!
Also in this episode:
- Why sleep recovery is critical for everyone
- Next Galaxies Mission
- New Galaxies Tools & Apps
🚀 Learn React Native: https://galaxies.dev/missions/zero-to-hero
🔥 Weekly Videos
https://www.youtube.com/@galaxies_dev
❤️ Socials
https://x.com/schlimmson
https://www.tiktok.com/@simongrimm_
https://www.linkedin.com/in/simongr
https://bsky.app/profile/galaxies.dev
👨💻 Apps
Matrix Manager: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/matrix-manager-task-manager/id6739463021
Quick Track: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quick-track-calorie-counter/id1669892980
Text to Voice AI: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/text-to-voice-ai-reader/id6739965632
Healthy Food Swap: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/healthy-food-swap/id6743627410
🔗 Links
Expo SDK 53: https://expo.dev/changelog/sdk-53
React Native AI: https://github.com/callstackincubator/ai
WebGPU Worklets: https://github.com/software-mansion-labs/react-native-webgpu-worklets
Web Payments on iOS: https://expo.dev/blog/mobile-app-payment-processing-best-practices
React Compiler reached release candidate, LegendList v1 is finally released and Evan Bacon shares React Native performance tips - meanwhile Simon questions his existence and whether React Native was the right choice after all
Also in this episode:
- How I use Convex and ElevenLabs to build a Captions clone
- Why are you not using AI?
- My vacation in Copenhagen
- New App sales and motivation
- Galaxies.dev merch
🚀 Learn React Native: https://galaxies.dev/missions/zero-to-hero
🔥 Weekly Videos
https://www.youtube.com/@galaxies_dev
❤️ Socials
https://x.com/schlimmson
https://www.tiktok.com/@simongrimm_
https://www.linkedin.com/in/simongr
https://bsky.app/profile/galaxies.dev
👨💻 Apps
Matrix Manager: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/matrix-manager-task-manager/id6739463021
Quick Track: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quick-track-calorie-counter/id1669892980
Text to Voice AI: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/text-to-voice-ai-reader/id6739965632
Healthy Food Swap: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/healthy-food-swap/id6743627410
🔗 Links
Legend List: https://github.com/LegendApp/legend-list
Typegpu-confetti: https://github.com/software-mansion-labs/typegpu-confetti
React Compiler RC: https://react.dev/blog/2025/04/21/react-compiler-rc
Expo Performance Tutorial: https://expo.dev/blog/best-practices-for-reducing-lag-in-expo-apps
The Expo SDK 53 Beta was released, FlashList v2 is a complete rewrite and is React Native actually popular? I dive into the latest news from the React Native community, and share updates on the projects I'm working on.
Also in this episode:
- How I use Convex and ElevenLabs to build a Captions clone
- Why are you not using AI?
- My vacation in Copenhagen
- New App sales and motivation
- Galaxies.dev merch
🚀 Learn React Native: https://galaxies.dev/missions/zero-to-hero
🔥 Weekly Videos
https://www.youtube.com/@galaxies_dev
❤️ Socials
https://x.com/schlimmson
https://www.tiktok.com/@simongrimm_
https://www.linkedin.com/in/simongr
https://bsky.app/profile/galaxies.dev
👨💻 Apps
Matrix Manager: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/matrix-manager-task-manager/id6739463021
Quick Track: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quick-track-calorie-counter/id1669892980
Text to Voice AI: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/text-to-voice-ai-reader/id6739965632
Healthy Food Swap: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/healthy-food-swap/id6743627410
🔗 Links
Expo SDK 53 beta: https://expo.dev/changelog/sdk-53-beta
Expo UI Package: https://docs.expo.dev/versions/unversioned/sdk/ui/
FlashList v2 alpha: https://github.com/Shopify/flash-list/tree/new-rlv-prototype
React Native Fantom: https://github.com/facebook/react-native/blob/main/packages/react-native-fantom/__docs__/README.md
Convex Chef: https://news.convex.dev/meet-chef/
Galaxies Merch: https://x.com/schlimmson/status/1913504363877662851
Hot Updater: https://github.com/gronxb/hot-updater
Jamon's reaction to the RN video: https://x.com/jamonholmgren/status/1913611094649897406
What's coming with Expo SDK 53? I dive into the latest news, trends and upcoming features of Expo and React Native, and share updates on the projects I'm working on.
Also in this episode:
- How RevenueCat Paywalls make my life better
- I talked with Google
- "Is this sponsored by Expo?"
- AI Image Trends
🚀 Learn React Native: https://galaxies.dev/missions/zero-to-hero
🔥 Weekly Videos
https://www.youtube.com/@galaxies_dev
❤️ Socials
https://x.com/schlimmson
https://www.tiktok.com/@simongrimm_
https://www.linkedin.com/in/simongr
https://bsky.app/profile/galaxies.dev
👨💻 Apps
Matrix Manager: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/matrix-manager-task-manager/id6739463021
Quick Track: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quick-track-calorie-counter/id1669892980
Text to Voice AI: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/text-to-voice-ai-reader/id6739965632
Healthy Food Swap: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/healthy-food-swap/id6743627410
🔗 Links
Evan Bacon better error: https://x.com/Baconbrix/status/1907891900935249955
RevenueCat: https://get.revenuecat.com/rocketship
Expo Peak Productivity Video: https://youtu.be/acj7-3-EQWM
I'm changing the format of RocketShip! Learn all about why and what changes, the new times and topics we will talk about. This podcast will continue to be primarily about React Native, but also about shipping great apps, using AI and news for mobile devs!
Also in this episode:
- My latest app projects
- My first experience with the Vercel AI SDK in Expo apps
- Personal branding stories from Simon
- Behind the scenes of a creator.
🚀 Learn React Native: https://galaxies.dev/missions/zero-to-hero
🔥 Weekly Videos
https://www.youtube.com/@galaxies_dev
❤️ Socials
https://x.com/schlimmson
https://www.tiktok.com/@simongrimm_
https://www.linkedin.com/in/simongr
https://bsky.app/profile/galaxies.dev
👨💻 Apps
Matrix Manager: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/matrix-manager-task-manager/id6739463021
Quick Track: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quick-track-calorie-counter/id1669892980
Text to Voice AI: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/text-to-voice-ai-reader/id6739965632
Healthy Food Swap: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/healthy-food-swap/id6743627410
In this conversation, Simon Grimm and Matt Palmer discuss the capabilities and evolution of Replit, a platform that allows developers to quickly turn ideas into applications using AI tools. They explore the features of Replit, including its ability to create full stack applications, the integration of AI, and the unique advantages it offers compared to other development tools. The discussion also touches on the possibilities and limitations of using Replit for various types of projects. In this conversation, Simon and Matt discuss the challenges of managing Python environments and the advantages of using Replit for development. They explore how developers can integrate various tools into their workflows, the benefits of building with AI for rapid prototyping, and the importance of effective prompt engineering. The discussion also touches on the future collaboration between Replit and Expo, highlighting the evolving landscape of software development.
Learn React Native - https://galaxies.dev
Matt Palmer
Matt leads developer relations and product marketing at Replit, creating everything from tutorials to technical content. He got his start in data, working as a product analyst at AllTrails before moving to data engineering and eventually DevRel.
He's worked on content with companies like LinkedIn, O'Reilly Media, xAI and Y Combinator. Outside of work, you can find him lifting weights or exploring the outdoors. Matt currently lives in San Francisco, but hails from Asheville, North Carolina.
Links
Takeaways
In this episode, Simon and Beto discuss the latest findings from the State of React Native survey, highlighting trends in developer backgrounds, platform usage, income levels, and the evolving landscape of libraries and tools in the React Native ecosystem. They delve into the increasing popularity of local storage solutions, deep linking, and the rise of Zustand in state management, while also addressing the challenges and opportunities for solo developers in the mobile app space. In this conversation, Beto and Simon discuss the current state and future of React Native, focusing on various aspects such as Expo Router usage, styling trends, graphics and animations, component libraries, debugging tools, architecture adoption, build processes, AI in code generation, and community sentiment. They highlight the improvements in developer experience and the shift towards a more native approach in React Native development.
Learn React Native - https://galaxies.dev
Alberto Moedano
Links
Takeaways
In this conversation, Simon Grimm interviews Dohyun Kim, known as YourAverageTechBro, about his journey as an app developer and content creator. They discuss the challenges and successes in building apps, the importance of marketing, and the technologies used in app development, including React Native, Supabase, and AI tools. Dohyun shares insights on his most successful app, Montee, and the strategies behind its development and marketing, as well as the lessons learned from previous projects. In this conversation, Dohyun discusses the development of his app, Montee, focusing on the use of Next.js and Supabase for differentiation and backend management. He shares insights on API security, handling costs, and user management strategies. The importance of action bias in development is emphasized, along with ideation and keyword research strategies. The discussion also covers social media marketing tactics and preferences between web and mobile app development.
Learn React Native - https://galaxies.dev
Dohyun Kim
Links
Takeaways
In this episode of Rocket Ship, Simon Grimm interviews Jack Herrington, a prominent figure in the React Native and Next.js communities. They discuss the challenges and changes in the React Native ecosystem, and the exciting developments around Module Federation and React Server Components (RSCs). Jack shares his experiences with React Native, the benefits of using Expo, and the performance gains associated with RSCs. The conversation also touches on the skepticism surrounding new technologies and the gradual adoption within the industry. In this conversation, Simon and Jack discuss the evolving landscape of React Server Components (RSCs), the impact of AI on app customization, and the rise of AI-driven development tools. They explore the integration of ShadCN, the future of universal apps, and compare RSCs with other frameworks like Svelte and Solid. The discussion highlights the challenges and innovations in the development community, particularly in relation to state management and the potential for AI to transform user experiences. They also delve into the ongoing debate between React Native and Flutter, highlight new features in React 19, and explore the potential of building custom Chrome extensions.
Learn React Native - https://galaxies.dev
Jack Herrington
Links
Takeaways
In this episode, Simon Grimm welcomes Evan Bacon, the manager of DevTools at Expo, to discuss the latest developments in Expo, including the Expo Router, Expo Web, and the new React Server Components. Evan shares insights on the adoption of Expo Router, the future of Expo Web, and the exciting potential of DOM components. The conversation highlights the challenges and innovations in building universal apps and the importance of making app development accessible to all. In this conversation, Simon and Evan Bacon delve into the evolving landscape of app development with a focus on Expo, React Native, and the introduction of new technologies like RSC and EAS hosting. They discuss the challenges developers face with App Store reviews, the skepticism surrounding new features, and the future of server components. The conversation also highlights the potential of Expo targets for Apple and the exciting possibilities of building widgets and live activities. As they look ahead, they express optimism about the advancements in Expo and the broader React Native ecosystem.
Learn React Native - https://galaxies.dev
Evan Bacon
Links
Takeaways
In this conversation, Simon Grimm interviews Ben Awad, a successful YouTuber and co-founder of the app Voidpet. They discuss Ben's journey from content creation to app development, the challenges and successes he faced, and the technical aspects of building his applications. The conversation also touches on the importance of user experience, monetization strategies, and the evolution of Ben's career in the tech industry. In this conversation, Ben Awad discusses his experiences and insights into React Native, game development, and the integration of AI tools in programming. He shares his journey from Android development to embracing React Native, the challenges of real-time gaming, and the evolution of the developer experience. Ben also touches on animation techniques in game development, his literary interests, and the future of his projects, including Voidpet and the Voidlog series.
Learn React Native - https://galaxies.dev
Ben Awad
Links
Takeaways
In this solo episode, Simon shares the new Galaxies.dev Zero to Hero Mission and why now is the best time to learn React Native. From New Architecture to Debugging, Expo, and companies in the ecosystem, this podcast will reinforce your drive to build and ship awesome React Native apps in 2025!
Join React Native Zero to Hero - https://galaxies.dev/missions/zero-to-hero
In this conversation, Simon Grimm interviews Samuel Newman, a developer at Bluesky, discussing his journey from university to app development, the intricacies of the Bluesky app and its underlying AT protocol, and the challenges and solutions encountered in enhancing user experience with React Native. They explore the role of Expo in app development, the importance of open-source contributions, and the future of Bluesky as it aims for significant user growth.
Learn React Native - https://galaxies.dev
Samuel Newman
Links
Takeaways
In this conversation, Simon Grimm interviews Jamon Holmgren, co-founder of Infinite Red, discussing the evolution and advantages of React Native in mobile app development. They explore the early adoption of React Native, its comparison with Flutter, the job market for developers, and the importance of open source contributions in the tech industry. Jamon shares insights from his extensive coding experience and the strategic decisions that led Infinite Red to focus on React Native. They delve into the Ignite boilerplate for React Native development, the importance of choosing the right tech stack, and the utility of Reactotron as a developer tool.
The discussion also touches on hiring trends in the React Native space, emphasizing the need for cultural fit and the unique hiring process at Infinite Red. In this conversation, Jamon and Simon discuss the importance of building a lasting company culture, essential skills for React Native developers, the significance of self-evaluation and continuous learning, effective networking and job searching strategies in tech, the future of React Native in the context of AI, and the trend towards universal applications while maintaining user experience.
Learn React Native - https://galaxies.dev
Jamon Holmgren
Links
Takeaways
In this conversation, Simon Grimm interviews Kim Chouard, a developer and educator, about his journey in coding, the challenges of building a multiplatform music game using React Native, and the innovative app Odisei Play that aims to help users learn to play wind instruments. Kim shares insights on the creative aspects of coding, the evolution of React Native, and the technology stack behind Odisei Play, including audio handling and pitch recognition. The discussion highlights the importance of education, creativity, and community in the tech space. In this conversation, Kim Chouard discusses the evolving landscape of development tools, particularly focusing on AI tools and their implications for new developers. He shares insights on the Expo audio package and the challenges faced in audio synchronization within applications. The discussion also delves into the use of Skia for performance optimization in React Native applications, highlighting its capabilities and the need for better documentation. Finally, Kim emphasizes the importance of a web-first approach in React Native development, advocating for a unified community that leverages the strengths of both web and mobile development.
Learn React Native - https://galaxies.dev
Kim Chouard
Links
Takeaways
