October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PCOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
World desk4 min

Expo Router’s 2024 Preview: Server Components vs. DOM Components

Expo’s November 2024 Expo Router announcements introduced a developer preview of React Server Components and Server Functions, plus DOM Components for reusing web modules in native apps. Here’s how their purposes, boundaries and documented limitations differ.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Bytes Issue 345, published November 26, 2024, highlighted two Expo Router developments: a developer preview of React Server Components and Server Functions, and DOM Components for embedding web modules in native apps. They solve different problems: server features move selected work to a server, while DOM Components run web code inside a native app through a WebView. The announcements document what Expo introduced in November 2024; they do not establish either feature’s status today.

What Expo announced in November 2024

Expo’s November 14 announcement introduced a developer preview of universal React Server Components and Server Functions for native apps and websites. Expo said the preview was intended to help library authors add support and gather feedback; production exports were not supported at that time. Expo’s announcement described server-rendered components and server functions as additions to Expo Router, not a replacement for the usual client-side React model.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Five days later, Expo announced DOM Components, a way to bring selected web modules into native apps. The two announcements share an aim of making Expo apps more flexible, but they do not describe interchangeable technologies.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

How RSC and DOM Components differ

Question React Server Components and Server Functions DOM Components
What problem do they address? Rendering selected components in a server environment and running server-side functions. Reusing web modules inside a native app while migrating some parts of a website to native views.
Where does the code run? Server components run in a server environment, at build time or request time; client components run on the client. The web module runs in a WebView embedded in the native app.
Does the feature require a network connection? Expo said server functions require a network connection to resolve. Expo described the DOM component as bundled as an Expo website and embedded in the native binary in production; the announcement does not describe this as a server-rendering feature.
What is the reuse strategy? Choose which code runs on the server and which remains interactive client code. Import a web module into a native app and replace selected pieces with native components over time.
What crosses the boundary? Server functions can return JSX; server modules cannot use client APIs or native modules and views. Serializable props and asynchronous callbacks can cross between the DOM and native sides.

What RSC in Expo Router meant

React Server Components run in a server environment, where components can be rendered at build time or at request time. Expo’s preview also included Server Functions: asynchronous server code identified with the "use server" directive. Expo described these functions as able to return JSX and noted they need a network connection to resolve.

#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.

Server modules have a different set of capabilities from client modules. They cannot use client APIs such as useState, useEffect or useContext, and they cannot access native modules or views. Expo’s announcement describes putting interactive code in a "use client" module when it needs those capabilities. Client components remained the default, preserving the existing interaction and offline behavior while developers chose where to introduce server rendering.

“This is a developer preview of universal React Server Components. For the first time ever, you can use React Server Components & Server Actions in native apps.”

Rank #2
Sale
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

How DOM Components bring web modules into native apps

Expo’s DOM Components use the "use dom" directive to mark a web module for import into a native app. Expo said the directive turns the file into a native WebView proxy. In production, the DOM component is bundled as an Expo website and embedded in the native binary.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

This approach is intended for incremental reuse rather than automatically converting a whole website into native UI. Expo’s examples included Markdown and MDX, rich-text editing with TipTap, and flow charts with React Flow. A DOM component can receive serializable props and use asynchronous callbacks to reach native functionality—for example, to trigger haptics.

Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

“The biggest limitation is that DOM components are still WebViews.”

DOM Component tradeoffs Expo documented

A WebView makes web-code reuse possible, but it does not make the web module behave exactly like a native view. Expo warned that gestures, scrolling and animations may feel less responsive on touch screens. The DOM and native sides also have separate React trees: they do not automatically share context or JavaScript globals.

Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft

Expo’s November 2024 announcement also listed implementation limits at that time:

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  • Over-the-air updates could not yet deliver new DOM Components.
  • React Server Components and Server Actions could not be used inside DOM Components.
  • Expo Router had no built-in navigation across the DOM boundary.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Which approach fits the job?

Consider RSC when the need is server-side work

The RSC preview addressed where rendering and server functions run. It is the relevant concept when a project needs selected components rendered in a server environment while retaining client components for interaction. The network requirement for server functions and the absence of client and native APIs inside server modules are important architectural boundaries, not incidental details.

Best Value
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display | 85W Max PD, 1 Powered USB-C 5Gbps & 2 Powered USB-A 3.0 5Gbps Data Ports, for MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Dell and More (Black)
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

Consider DOM Components when the need is web-code reuse

DOM Components addressed how to reuse a web module inside a native application. They may suit a feature such as an editor or diagramming surface that is already available as a web module, especially when a team plans to replace selected parts with native views gradually. The WebView interaction limits and separate React tree matter if the feature depends heavily on touch responsiveness or shared application state.

What the announcements do—and do not—establish

The Bytes Issue 345 page called out these Expo developments in its November 26, 2024 issue. Its stated figure of 186,638 refers to developers who receive the Bytes newsletter each week, according to that issue; it is not an Expo or React Native adoption statistic. Read Bytes Issue 345 or browse the Bytes archive.

The feature conditions and limitations above are specific to Expo’s announcements of November 14 and November 19, 2024. Those sources do not establish current production status, current availability, or whether the stated limitations have since changed. Check current Expo documentation before making a present-day implementation decision.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Wire

  1. World desk4 min
    How to Spot an AI Voice Scam Before Sending MoneyDon’t rely on how a caller sounds. Pause, call back through a known number, and verify the emergency with another trusted person before sending money.
  2. Mountain View desk4 min
    Google’s SynthID Detector: How to Check AI-Generated Images, Video and AudioGoogle’s SynthID Detector looks for an embedded watermark in supported images, video and audio. Here is what its results do—and do not—show.
  3. Redmond desk20 min
    How to create a link to File or Folder in Windows 11Windows 11 gives you several ways to point to a file or folder without moving or duplicating it. You can create a desktop shortcut,…
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.