Expo EAS local build: Plugin Error: Failed to resolve plugin for module <module-name> relative to <your-build-directory>

2 min read 05-10-2024

Expo EAS local build: Plugin Error: Failed to resolve plugin for module <module-name> relative to <your-build-directory>

"Plugin Error: Failed to resolve plugin for module " in Expo EAS Build: A Comprehensive Guide

Developing with Expo offers a streamlined development experience, but occasionally, you might encounter errors like "Plugin Error: Failed to resolve plugin for module relative to ". This error can be frustrating, but understanding its root cause and implementing a few simple solutions can quickly resolve it.

Understanding the Problem

This error arises when Expo EAS Build tries to locate a required plugin, but it cannot find the necessary files within your project's build directory. It essentially means the plugin is not installed or is not correctly configured in your Expo project.

Scenario and Code Example

Let's assume you're using a plugin called expo-image-picker and you receive the following error during a local build:

Plugin Error: Failed to resolve plugin for module expo-image-picker relative to /Users/yourusername/yourproject/build/

This indicates that expo-image-picker is not installed in the build/ directory, which is necessary for the build process.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Verify Plugin Installation:

Check package.json: Ensure expo-image-picker is listed as a dependency in your package.json file.
Run npm install or yarn install: If the plugin is not installed, use your package manager to install it.

2. Check Expo SDK Version:

Verify compatibility: Some plugins may require specific Expo SDK versions. Consult the plugin documentation to ensure compatibility with your current Expo SDK.
Update Expo SDK: If necessary, use the expo upgrade command to update your Expo SDK to a compatible version.

3. Clean and Rebuild:

Delete build directory: Remove the build/ directory from your project.
Reinstall node modules: Run npm install or yarn install to reinstall dependencies.
Rebuild: Execute expo build:android or expo build:ios to initiate the build process again.

4. Verify Configuration (If Applicable):

Plugin-specific setup: Some plugins may require additional configuration steps in your app.json or app.config.js files. Review the plugin documentation for specific instructions.
Custom plugins: If you're using a custom plugin, ensure it's properly linked and configured within your project.

5. Check for Conflicts:

Dependency conflicts: If multiple plugins depend on the same module but require different versions, a conflict can occur. Try updating your package manager or manually resolving conflicts to ensure compatibility.
Plugin version: Sometimes, older versions of plugins might not work with newer Expo SDKs. Consider updating the plugin to the latest version if possible.

Additional Tips

Restart Expo CLI: Restarting the Expo CLI can sometimes resolve temporary issues.
Check for updates: Ensure you're using the latest version of the Expo CLI and Expo Go app.
Consult the Expo Documentation: The Expo documentation provides comprehensive information on building apps and resolving common errors.

Key Takeaways

The "Plugin Error: Failed to resolve plugin" usually points to a missing or incorrectly configured plugin.
Always verify plugin installation, compatibility with your Expo SDK, and any specific plugin configurations.
Consider cleaning and rebuilding your project to resolve potential issues.
If you encounter persistent issues, consult the Expo documentation or reach out for help in the Expo community forums.

By following these steps, you can effectively resolve the "Plugin Error: Failed to resolve plugin" and continue building your Expo application.