EAS
Expo Application Services: cloud builds, submit hooks, and related automation for Expo projects. Build and release infrastructure, not your app logic.
What it is
EAS Build produces signed iOS and Android binaries in the cloud; EAS Submit can push artifacts to stores; related services handle parts of the release pipeline. You configure projects with profiles and credentials.
Why it matters
It removes the need for every developer to maintain heavy local native toolchains for routine release builds, while keeping artifacts reproducible and team-accessible.
When to use it
Use EAS when you are on Expo and want consistent CI-style builds and store submission without bespoke Mac farm setup for every teammate.
How it fits in the stack
It sits beside source control and app stores: after your JS/RN code is ready, EAS produces and routes binaries. It does not replace Xcode/Android Studio for all debugging, or Apple/Google review processes.
Common confusion
EAS is build and deploy tooling around Expo workflows, not a replacement for React Native or Expo APIs in your code. It also does not bypass store rules or testing obligations. You still validate behavior on devices.