Turbo Modules and Native Code: When to Go Native in React Native

Some features belong in native code: cryptography, heavy media processing, or platform APIs with no stable JS equivalent. Turbo Modules are the modern way to expose those capabilities with lazy loading and codegen.

Deciding native vs JS

Prefer JS when logic is business rules and IO is already efficient. Go native when you need SIMD-level math, background execution constraints, or APIs that are cumbersome to polyfill.

Codegen and consistency

Define a TypeScript spec and generate bindings for iOS and Android. This reduces drift between platforms and documents the contract for your team.

Testing and release

Native code multiplies test surface: unit tests in native languages, integration tests from JS, and staged rollouts. Document minimum OS versions and permission prompts.

Resources

Follow Turbo Modules guides for scaffolding and community examples for your stack.