React Native is kind of broken (they NEED to fix this)

Summiz Holo

React Native performance issues with controlled inputs and uncontrolled inputs management

• React Native should discourage the use of controlled inputs due to significant issues that may never be resolved.
• The distinction between controlled and uncontrolled inputs is crucial for understanding performance problems in React Native applications.
• Controlled inputs rely on React to manage their state, which can lead to lag and performance issues if the app is slow or blocked.
• Uncontrolled inputs allow the browser to manage their state, resulting in better performance even when the app is slow.
• React Hook Form is recommended for managing uncontrolled inputs, but it may also face issues when used with React Native.

React Native controlled inputs issues, bugs, and architectural limitations

• Controlled inputs in React Native are fundamentally broken, leading to issues like cursor lag and incorrect user input.
• A specific pull request highlights the problems with controlled text editing in React Native, emphasizing the need to discourage their use.
• Bugs related to controlled inputs are not limited to React Native but also occur in native apps, indicating a broader issue with input control.
• The recommendation is to use default values and avoid controlled inputs entirely until the bugs are resolved.
• The new architecture of React Native does not fix the existing issues with controlled inputs, including infinite loops in multi-line inputs.
• There is a perception that React Native is incapable of producing high-quality native apps due to these fundamental input issues.

React Native input handling failures, user trust erosion, and onboarding neglect

• Controlled inputs in React Native lead to a disconnect from native performance, causing issues like dropped keystrokes and cursor position loss, which are unacceptable for a framework that aims for platform fidelity.
• The React Native team has not prioritized fixing basic input issues, which undermines user trust and the overall experience.
• The onboarding process and getting started experience for React Native have not been adequately maintained, with responsibilities shifted to Expo, which is overwhelmed with other challenges.
• There is a need for a dedicated focus on ensuring that native controls do not degrade user experience, treating any degradation as a high-severity issue.
• The original ethos of the React project, which emphasized setting users up for success, should be reflected in React Native's approach to input handling and overall user experience.