Choosing a Right CodePush Alternative: 8 Things to Consider

1. Platform Compatibility

When choosing a CodePush alternative, platform compatibility is important.

Your selected solution should support your app’s framework for a smooth integration and update process.

Supported Frameworks

• React Native – Many alternatives, like AppsOnAir and Expo Updates, provide first-class support for React Native.
• Cordova & Capacitor – Appflow can be the right choice for developers using these technologies.
• Flutter – Flutter has limited OTA update options, but Firebase Remote Config can help with minor updates.
• Native iOS & Android – Some tools, like Firebase Remote Config, offer feature management but not full OTA updates.

2. Cross-Platform vs. Platform-Specific Solutions

• Platform-Specific Solutions – AppsOnAir is designed specifically for React Native.
• Cross-Platform Solutions – A tool like Firebase Remote Config works across multiple frameworks to manage both iOS and Android apps.

3. Ease of Integration & Migration

The transition from CodePush should be as smooth as possible. A good alternative should offer:

• Minimal Code Changes – The less you need to modify your app, the easier the migration process.
• Clear Documentation – Comprehensive guides and tutorials help developers set up the new service without hassle.
• SDK & API Support – Well-documented APIs and SDKs simplify the integration process.
• Community & Open-Source Contributions – Active developer communities contribute to a smoother migration by providing real-world solutions and shared experiences.

AppsOnAir, for example, provides well-documented migration guides which makes it easier to switch from CodePush.

4. Rollback & Version Management

One of CodePush’s most valuable features was the ability to roll back updates instantly in case of issues. Any alternative should provide:

• Instant Rollback Options – Ability to revert a bad update immediately to prevent crashes or performance issues.
• Version Control – The option to deploy updates selectively based on app versions, ensuring that different user segments receive the correct update.
• Staged Rollouts – Some platforms allow you to release updates gradually, reducing the risk of widespread failures.

AppsOnAir provides solid rollback capabilities which makes it a strong candidate for replacing CodePush.

5. Performance & Reliability

OTA updates should be delivered quickly and reliably to ensure a smooth user experience. Key performance factors to consider:

Supported Frameworks

• Update Speed – How fast an update is distributed to users.
• Server Uptime – The reliability of the service in delivering updates without downtime.
• Content Delivery Network (CDN) Support – Using a CDN ensures faster updates by caching and distributing updates efficiently across regions.

AppsOnAir uses a cloud-based infrastructure for fast and reliable updates, while Expo Updates leverages its own servers to deliver updates efficiently.

6. Pricing & Scalability

Different OTA update services have varying pricing models:

• Free vs. Paid Plans – Some services, like Expo Updates, offer free usage, while others, like Appflow, require a subscription for full features.

If we talk about, AppsOnAir, it has three plans, in the free plan, you can download 1000 code push bundles, and in the pro, you get a limit of 5000.

However, for both plans, you can purchase extra bundles as add-ons.

The third plan is the enterprise plan. When you select it, you can have conversations with the AppsOnAir team and you get features based on your personal needs.

• Usage-Based Costs – Some platforms charge based on bandwidth, number of updates, or users.
• Enterprise Scalability – If you’re working on a large-scale app, ensure the solution can handle thousands or millions of users without issues like AppsOnAir.

Explore: View AppsOnAir Pricing

7. Analytics & Monitoring

Understanding how updates perform is crucial for maintaining a stable app. A good alternative should offer:

• Update Adoption Tracking – See how many users have received and installed an update.
• Error Reporting – Detect and fix issues in new updates quickly.
• Performance Metrics – Monitor update speed, crash rates, and user engagement.

Firebase Remote Config includes analytics for tracking feature rollouts, while Appflow and Expo Updates provide insights into update adoption rates.

AppsOnAir lets you track updates, installs, performance, and everything you need in one place.

8. Community & Support

A strong community and responsive support are a must when you get stuck in some issue.

• Developer Community – Active forums, GitHub discussions, and Stack Overflow presence can provide solutions to common problems.
• Official Support – Paid plans should include priority support for critical issues.

Expo Updates has a strong open-source community, while Appflow provides dedicated support for paid users.

If we talk about AppsOnAir, it has quick support. If you face any issue, you can directly contact to support team via mail.