What is React Native and How Does It Work?

React Native is a JavaScript framework developed by Facebook that enables developers to build mobile applications with a single codebase, streamlining the process of creating apps for both iOS and Android platforms. By allowing up to 90% code reuse through its bridge architecture, React Native translates JavaScript components into genuine native UI elements, enhancing performance over hybrid frameworks like Cordova and Ionic. This approach leverages existing JavaScript skills and React patterns, making the transition to mobile app development more accessible for web developers while reducing the need for separate development teams for each platform. The framework offers significant time and cost savings, particularly for content-driven apps, enterprise tools, and MVPs, by supporting rapid iteration through hot reloading and maintaining a familiar development environment. However, for projects requiring intensive graphics, real-time sensor processing, or immediate access to the latest hardware features, native development might still be necessary. React Native's evolution, including its "New Architecture" with Fabric and TurboModules, continues to enhance its performance, making it an attractive option for many mobile development projects.