Uses
What I reach for when I build mobile apps and voice AI. Updated Oct 2026.
Building apps
- React NativeOne codebase for iOS and Android, with native modules when I need to go deeper.
- TypeScriptOn the phone, on the server and on the web.
- Zustand and ReduxZustand for small and simple, Redux when a team needs structure.
- React and Next.jsFor dashboards and the occasional website.
Voice and AI
- OpenAI Realtime APISpeech in and speech out over one connection. The biggest single latency win I've had.
- ElevenLabs and PlayHTFor agents that should not sound like a robot.
- WebSocketsFor anything that streams.
Backend
- Node.js with NestJS or ExpressNestJS for bigger services, Express for small ones.
- PostgreSQL and RedisPostgres for almost everything, Redis for speed.
- AWS, Docker and GitHub ActionsBuild, test and deploy without thinking about it.
Debugging
- Android Studio and XcodeWhere the real answers usually are.
- FlipperNetwork, logs and layout on a running app.
- Firebase CrashlyticsThe first place I look when users say "it crashed".
- PostmanFor poking at endpoints before the app does.
- Real phonesSimulators don't have Bluetooth headsets or bad Wi-Fi.