React Native 0.82 Marks a New Chapter: Fully on the New Architecture

Introduction

React Native 0.82 is a landmark release that transitions the framework exclusively to the New Architecture, signaling the end of the legacy system. This update not only streamlines the codebase but also introduces experimental features like Hermes V1 and updates to React 19.1.1, along with DOM Node API support. For developers, this means a more performant and future-proof foundation for mobile app development.

React Native 0.82 Marks a New Chapter: Fully on the New Architecture

Key Highlights of React Native 0.82

New Architecture Only: The legacy architecture is no longer available; all apps run on the new system.
Experimental Hermes V1: An opt-in preview of the next-generation JavaScript engine.
React 19.1.1: Enables the latest React features and improvements.
DOM Node APIs: New APIs for manipulating DOM nodes in native components.

New Architecture Only: A Mandatory Shift

Since React Native 0.76 made the New Architecture the default, the team has thoroughly tested and refined it. Now, with 0.82, the legacy architecture is completely removed. Attempts to set newArchEnabled=false on Android or RCT_NEW_ARCH_ENABLED=0 on iOS will be ignored; your app will always run on the New Architecture.

This change reduces bundle size and simplifies the codebase, paving the way for future optimizations.

How to Migrate to React Native 0.82

If you haven't migrated yet, follow these steps:

First, upgrade to React Native 0.81 or Expo SDK 54—the last versions that support the legacy architecture. These include warnings and performance improvements to aid migration.
Enable the New Architecture in 0.81 and thoroughly test your application to ensure everything works.
Once stable on the New Architecture with 0.81, update to React Native 0.82. The newer version will not allow enabling the legacy architecture, ensuring a clean transition.

If a third-party dependency blocks migration, contact its maintainers directly. For bugs in React Native core, report them via the issue tracker.

Interop Layers and Third-Party Library Compatibility

The interop layers—which allow legacy code to run on the New Architecture—will remain in the codebase for the foreseeable future. Classes and functions required by these layers won't be removed soon. The team will share updates about their eventual removal. Libraries that already support both architectures will continue to work with 0.82.

Removal of Legacy Architecture Classes

To minimize breaking changes, no legacy API removals occur in this release. However, starting with the next version, the team will begin removing legacy architecture code to save significant bundle size. For details, refer to RFC0929: Removal of the Legacy Architecture.

Experimental Hermes V1

This release introduces an experimental opt-in for Hermes V1, the next version of the Hermes JavaScript engine. Developers can try it out to improve startup time and runtime performance. Note that this is experimental and may have limitations.

React 19.1.1 and DOM Node APIs

React Native 0.82 upgrades React to version 19.1.1, bringing the latest concurrent features and hooks. Additionally, DOM Node APIs are now available, allowing direct manipulation of native DOM nodes for more advanced UI scenarios.

Looking Ahead

React Native 0.82 is a pivotal release that sets the stage for a leaner, faster framework. By fully embracing the New Architecture, the team can focus on removing legacy code, reducing install size, and introducing new capabilities. Future updates will continue to refine the developer experience.