expo is a framework and platform for universal React applications, particularly focused on building mobile applications for iOS and Android. It simplifies the development process by providing a set of tools and services that streamline the creation, testing, and deployment of React Native applications. With Expo, developers can leverage a rich set of pre-built components, access device APIs, and utilize an easy-to-use development environment, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced developers looking to accelerate their mobile app development.

One of the main alternatives to Expo is react-native-cli. This command-line interface allows developers to create and manage React Native projects without the additional abstractions that Expo provides. While react-native-cli offers more flexibility and control over the native code and project configuration, it requires a deeper understanding of the underlying mobile platforms and can lead to a more complex setup process. Developers who prefer to have full control over their project configuration and are comfortable managing native dependencies may find react-native-cli to be a better fit for their needs.

For those looking to compare the two options, check out the comparison link: Comparing expo vs react-native-cli.