Troubleshooting TypeError: cli.init is not a function for React Native

Facing the frustrating ‘TypeError: cli.init is not a function’ error in React Native projects can be perplexing. This issue often stems from conflicts with the global installation of the react-native-cli package. But fear not, as we dive into troubleshooting steps to help you resolve this error and get back to smooth development.

Troubleshooting TypeError: cli.init is not a function in React Native

The error message “TypeError: cli.init is not a function” typically occurs when initializing a React Native project. Let’s troubleshoot this issue:

Global React Native CLI Package:
- If you previously installed a global react-native-cli package, it might cause unexpected issues. To resolve this, remove it using the following command:
```
npm uninstall -g react-native-cli
```
  Alternatively, you can use Yarn:
```
yarn global remove react-native-cli
```
- After removing the global package, install the React Native CLI again:
```
npm install -g react-native-cli
```
- Create your project using:
```
npx react-native init YourProjectName
```
Downgrade React Native Version:
- Sometimes, upgrading to the latest React Native version can lead to this error. If you recently upgraded, consider downgrading to a stable version.
- For example, if you’re using version 0.69.0 and encountering the error, try downgrading to 0.68.2:
```
npx react-native init YourProjectName --version 0.68.2
```

Troubleshooting TypeError: cli.init is not a function Error in React Native

The error message “TypeError: cli.init is not a function” in React Native typically occurs when there’s an issue with the global installation of the react-native-cli. Let’s troubleshoot this and find a solution:

Check for Global Installations:
- If you previously installed a global react-native-cli package, it might cause unexpected issues. To resolve this, remove it using the following command:
```
npm uninstall -g react-native-cli
```
  or
```
yarn global remove react-native-cli
```
Install React Native Globally Again:
- Install the react-native-cli globally again:
```
npm install -g react-native-cli
```
  or
```
yarn global add react-native-cli
```
Create Your Project:
- Now you can create your React Native project using:
```
npx react-native init YourAwesomeProject
```

Clean Global Environments (Optional):

If you encounter any issues, you can clean up global environments:

yarn global remove react-native
yarn global remove react-native-cli
npm uninstall -g react-native
npm uninstall -g react-native-cli

Verify that nothing related to React Native remains in these lists:
```
yarn global list
npm -g list
```

Then install the react-native-cli globally again and create your project:

npm install -g react-native-cli
npm install -g react-native
npx react-native init YourProjectName

Remember that React Native has evolved, and from version 0.69 onward, it no longer supports global installations of react-native-cli. Instead, use npx react-native for project initialization. This approach ensures compatibility with the latest versions.

Resolving TypeError in React Native projects

The error message “TypeError: cli.init is not a function” in React Native projects can be frustrating, but we can resolve it. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot this issue:

Check Your React Native Version:
- From version 0.69 onward, React Native no longer supports global installations of react-native-cli.
- If you previously installed a global react-native-cli package, it might cause unexpected issues.
- To resolve this, consider initializing your project with a specific React Native version.

Remove Global Installations:

First, uninstall any global react-native and react-native-cli packages:

npm uninstall -g react-native
npm uninstall -g react-native-cli

yarn global remove react-native
yarn global remove react-native-cli

Install React Native Locally:

Install the latest version of react-native globally:

npm install -g react-native-cli
npm install -g react-native

yarn global add react-native-cli
yarn global add react-native

Create Your Project Again:
- Now you can create your React Native project using npx:
```
npx react-native init YourAwesomeProject
```
Verify the Project Structure:
- Check if the iOS and Android folders are created within your project directory.
- If not, the initialization process might not have completed successfully.

Remember, these steps should help you get past the TypeError: cli.init is not a function

‘TypeError: cli.init is not a function’ Error Solutions

The ‘TypeError: cli.init is not a function’ error in React Native can be frustrating, but let’s get it sorted out. This issue typically arises due to conflicts with the global installation of the react-native-cli package. Here are some steps to resolve it:

Uninstall the Existing react-native-cli:
- If you previously installed a global react-native-cli package, it’s essential to remove it. You can do this using the following command:
```
npm uninstall -g react-native-cli
```
  or
```
yarn global remove react-native-cli
```
Install react-native-cli Again:
- After uninstalling, install the react-native-cli globally again:
```
npm install -g react-native-cli
```
  or
```
yarn global add react-native-cli
```
Create Your Project:
- Now you can create your React Native project using the following command:
```
npx react-native init YourAwesomeProject
```

Reference: React Native Environment Setup

Resolving ‘cli.init is not a function’ Error in React Native

The ‘cli.init is not a function’ error in React Native can be frustrating, but there are a few steps you can take to resolve it. Let’s tackle this issue:

Check Your Global Environment:
- If you previously installed a global react-native-cli package, it might be causing conflicts. To resolve this, uninstall it using the following command:
```
npm uninstall -g react-native-cli
```
  Alternatively, if you’re using Yarn:
```
yarn global remove react-native-cli
```
Install React Native CLI Again:
- Make sure you have the React Native CLI installed globally. If not, install it using:
```
npm install -g react-native-cli
```
  Or with Yarn:
```
yarn global add react-native-cli
```
Create Your Project:
- Now you can create your React Native project using:
```
npx react-native init YourAwesomeProject
```

Clean Up Global Environments (Optional):

If you encounter any issues, consider cleaning up your global environments:

yarn global remove react-native
yarn global remove react-native-cli

Or with npm:

npm uninstall -g react-native
npm uninstall -g react-native-cli

In conclusion, navigating the ‘TypeError: cli.init is not a function’ error in React Native projects requires a systematic approach to eliminate conflicts and ensure smooth project initialization. By following the outlined steps, including checking and reinstalling the React Native CLI, creating projects with care, and optionally cleaning up global environments, you can overcome this obstacle effectively. Remember, a solid understanding of your project’s environment and proper CLI management are key to steering clear of the daunting ‘cli.init is not a function’ error and enhancing your React Native development experience.

Sep 10, 2023
Roderick Webb
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