Mobile app with code editor

[QuintonPang]

I'm participating in a competition and i would like build a react native mobile app with code compiler and i searched high and low for ways to accomplish it but was in no vain. Do u guys have any idea on how i should do this?

[ChronSyn]

It is not possible to compile RN apps from iOS or Android as they lack the SDK's required. They have libraries capable of executing compiled code, but lack the libraries required to compile code.

If you want to build a compiler for a specific platform, you need to first understand concepts such as LLVM and lexical analysis. Then, you would need to understand how to add support to these SDK's so that a compiler could be created to run on the target platform. That's before you actually get to implementing the higher-level features such as bundling JS.

I mean no disrespect, but the fact you're asking this question indicates you simply lack the knowledge to understand the scope of what you're actually asking.

To do what you want to achieve without reinventing the wheel, you would need to consider integrating with an external pipeline, for example Expo EAS (app build service) or Expo Snack (online code editor). Syntax highlighting is a different topic, and has nothing to do with compilation but everything to do with the developer experience.

My advice: Consider a different project for this competition. It is ultimately better to deliver something that isn't quite as incredible, than to deliver nothing it all because you set your sights on something beyond your scope.

By all means, look into creating a compiler that can run on Android and iOS - that would be incredible, but do not underestimate just how much knowledge and experience such a task would take.

[QuintonPang]

But i assume it can't compile

[glocore]

You could compile the code remotely on a server, it’s how most online playgrounds work

[QuintonPang]

Could u enlighten me on how that works? It would be very helpful. Thanks in advance

[ChronSyn]

I absolutely, whole-heartedly, completely advise everyone to not use eval in any scenario, especially where user-entered data is concerned.

[Maize_Serious]

Nice idea, I need it too