How to Fix “Compose Compiler Requires Kotlin Version” Error in Expo Bare Workflow

by

If you’re building a React Native app with Expo in Bare Workflow and suddenly hit an error like “This version of the Compose Compiler requires Kotlin version X but you appear to be using Kotlin version Y”, you’re not alone! This error can feel like a roadblock, especially if you’re new to Expo or Kotlin. But don’t worry—it’s fixable, and this guide will walk you through it step-by-step in plain, easy-to-understand language.

In this blog, we’ll explain what this error means, why it happens, and how to resolve it so you can get back to coding your app. Whether you’re adding custom native code or upgrading your Expo project, we’ve got you covered with practical solutions, examples, and tips. Let’s dive in and sort this out together!

What Is the “Compose Compiler Requires Kotlin Version” Error?

First things first—what’s this error all about? Here’s a simple breakdown:

  • Compose Compiler: This is a tool that helps turn your Kotlin code (used for Android native features) into something your app can run. It’s part of Jetpack Compose, a modern Android UI toolkit.
  • Kotlin Version: Kotlin is a programming language Expo uses for Android native code. Each version of the Compose Compiler works with specific Kotlin versions.
  • The Problem: If your project’s Kotlin version doesn’t match what the Compose Compiler expects, you’ll see this error during the build process (like when running ./gradlew assembleRelease).

For example, the error might say:

This version (1.5.14) of the Compose Compiler requires Kotlin version 1.9.25 but you appear to be using Kotlin version 1.9.24.

This means there’s a mismatch, and we need to fix it!

Why Does This Happen in Expo Bare Workflow?

Expo Bare Workflow lets you customize your app with native code (like Kotlin for Android), unlike the managed workflow where Expo handles everything. But with great power comes… well, a few errors! Here’s why this specific issue pops up:

1. Mixing Versions

  • Expo updates its SDK often, and each version ties to specific Kotlin and Gradle setups.
  • If you upgrade Expo or add a library that uses Compose, the versions might not align.

2. Native Code Adventures

  • In Bare Workflow, you might add Kotlin code or third-party plugins that pull in Compose dependencies, triggering version conflicts.

3. Gradle Confusion

  • Gradle (the build tool for Android) manages these versions. If its settings are off, you’ll hit this snag.

Think of it like trying to use a new phone charger with an old phone—it won’t work unless the plug matches!

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix the Error

Let’s roll up our sleeves and fix this. Follow these steps, and you’ll be back on track. We’ll assume you’re using a typical Expo Bare Workflow setup as of March 2025.

Step 1: Check Your Current Setup

Before changing anything, let’s see what you’re working with.

  • Expo Version: In your terminal, run:
  npx expo --version

As of March 2025, you might see something like 52.0.x.

  • Kotlin Version: Look in android/build.gradle for this line:
  classpath "org.jetbrains.kotlin:kotlin-gradle-plugin:1.9.24"

That’s your Kotlin version (e.g., 1.9.24).

  • Compose Compiler Version: Check android/app/build.gradle for:
  composeOptions {
      kotlinCompilerExtensionVersion "1.5.14"
  }

Write these down—they’re the puzzle pieces we’ll fit together.

Step 2: Understand Compatibility

The Compose Compiler and Kotlin versions must match. Since Kotlin 2.0.0 (released in 2024), the Compose Compiler is bundled with Kotlin, so their versions align (e.g., Kotlin 2.0.0 uses Compose Compiler 2.0.0). For older versions, check the Compose-Kotlin Compatibility Map.

For example:

  • Compose Compiler 1.5.14 needs Kotlin 1.9.25.
  • Compose Compiler 2.0.0 needs Kotlin 2.0.0.

If your error says the Compose Compiler needs 1.9.25 but you’re on 1.9.24, we need to update Kotlin.

Step 3: Update Kotlin in Your Project

Here’s how to sync your Kotlin version:

Open android/build.gradle

Find the buildscript section:

buildscript {
    ext {
        kotlinVersion = "1.9.24" // This might be your current version
    }
    dependencies {
        classpath "org.jetbrains.kotlin:kotlin-gradle-plugin:$kotlinVersion"
    }
}
  • Change kotlinVersion to match what the error demands (e.g., 1.9.25).
  • Update the classpath line too:
  classpath "org.jetbrains.kotlin:kotlin-gradle-plugin:1.9.25"

Check for Compose Plugin (Post-Kotlin 2.0.0)

If you’re on Kotlin 2.0.0+, add the Compose Compiler plugin at the top of android/build.gradle:

plugins {
    id "org.jetbrains.kotlin.plugin.compose" version "2.0.0" apply false
}

Step 4: Update Compose Settings

Now, head to android/app/build.gradle.

For Older Versions (Pre-Kotlin 2.0.0)

If you’re using an older setup, ensure the composeOptions block matches your Kotlin version:

android {
    buildFeatures {
        compose true
    }
    composeOptions {
        kotlinCompilerExtensionVersion "1.5.14" // Match this to your error’s requirement
    }
}

Update it to the version tied to your Kotlin version (e.g., 1.5.14 for Kotlin 1.9.25).

For Kotlin 2.0.0+

If you’re on Kotlin 2.0.0+, remove composeOptions (it’s not needed anymore) and apply the plugin:

plugins {
    id "com.android.application"
    id "org.jetbrains.kotlin.android"
    id "org.jetbrains.kotlin.plugin.compose"
}
android {
    buildFeatures {
        compose true
    }
}

Step 5: Sync and Clean

After editing, sync your project:

  • In Android Studio, click “Sync Project with Gradle Files.”
  • In the terminal, run:
  cd android
  ./gradlew clean
  cd ..
  npx expo run:android

Step 6: Test Your Fix

Build your app again:

./gradlew assembleRelease

If the error’s gone, you’re golden! If not, don’t panic—we’ll troubleshoot next.

Example: Before and After

Here’s what your files might look like before and after fixing.

Before (Error State)

android/build.gradle:

buildscript {
    ext {
        kotlinVersion = "1.9.24"
    }
    dependencies {
        classpath "org.jetbrains.kotlin:kotlin-gradle-plugin:1.9.24"
    }
}

android/app/build.gradle:

android {
    buildFeatures {
        compose true
    }
    composeOptions {
        kotlinCompilerExtensionVersion "1.5.14"
    }
}

Error: “Compose Compiler 1.5.14 requires Kotlin 1.9.25, but you’re using 1.9.24.”

After (Fixed)

android/build.gradle:

buildscript {
    ext {
        kotlinVersion = "1.9.25"
    }
    dependencies {
        classpath "org.jetbrains.kotlin:kotlin-gradle-plugin:1.9.25"
    }
}

android/app/build.gradle:

android {
    buildFeatures {
        compose true
    }
    composeOptions {
        kotlinCompilerExtensionVersion "1.5.14"
    }
}

Now they match, and the error disappears!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go smoothly. Here’s how to handle hiccups:

1. “Version Not Found” Error

  • Problem: Gradle can’t find Kotlin 1.9.25 (or whatever version).
  • Fix: Ensure your repositories include mavenCentral():
  repositories {
      google()
      mavenCentral()
  }

2. Build Still Fails

  • Problem: Old cached files are messing things up.
  • Fix: Run a deeper clean:
  rm -rf android/build
  rm -rf ~/.gradle/caches
  npx expo run:android

3. Expo Modules Conflict

  • Problem: Expo’s native modules (like expo-modules-core) might expect a different Kotlin version.
  • Fix: Update Expo SDK:
  npm install expo@latest

4. Kotlin 2.0.0 Confusion

  • Problem: If you’re on Kotlin 2.0.0+, but the error persists.
  • Fix: Remove composeOptions entirely and ensure the Compose plugin is applied (see Step 4).

Why This Matters in Expo Bare Workflow

Fixing this error isn’t just about clearing a hurdle—it’s about keeping your app healthy. Here’s why:

  • Native Flexibility: Bare Workflow lets you use Kotlin and Compose for custom Android features (e.g., advanced UI or hardware access).
  • Future-Proofing: Staying updated with Kotlin and Compose ensures compatibility with new Expo releases.
  • Smooth Builds: A matched setup means fewer random errors down the road.

It’s like keeping your car’s engine tuned—everything runs better!

Best Practices for Expo Bare Workflow

To avoid this error in the future, try these tips:

  • Check Compatibility: Before upgrading Expo or adding libraries, peek at the Compose-Kotlin map.
  • Version Control: Use a build.gradle.kts file with variables (e.g., ext.kotlinVersion) to manage versions centrally.
  • Test Locally: Run npx expo run:android after changes to catch issues early.
  • Stay Updated: Keep Expo, Gradle, and Kotlin current with npm update and Gradle wrapper updates.

The “Compose Compiler requires Kotlin version” error might slow you down, but it’s a quick fix once you know the steps. By aligning your Kotlin and Compose versions, cleaning your project, and testing the build, you’ll squash this bug and keep your Expo Bare Workflow project humming along.

Have you hit this error before? Fixed it a different way? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your story! Now, go finish that app—you’ve got this!

Leave a Comment