Fixing Gorhom Bottom Sheet Errors In React Native

Hey everyone! If you're wrestling with the React Native Gorhom Bottom Sheet and running into the dreaded "TypeError: ref.current.unstable_getBoundingClientRect is not a function", you're definitely not alone. It's a common hiccup when integrating this awesome library into your React Native projects. This article is your friendly guide to troubleshooting and fixing this specific issue, especially if you're rocking React Native 0.82, BottomSheet v5, Gesture Handler v2, and ReAnimated v3 on iOS 26. Let's dive in and get that bottom sheet working like a charm!

Understanding the Problem: Why unstable_getBoundingClientRect Fails

So, what's actually happening when you see that error message? Basically, the Gorhom Bottom Sheet library, at some point, tries to get the dimensions of a component using unstable_getBoundingClientRect. This function is typically used to calculate the position and size of an element relative to the viewport. However, in your specific setup, ref.current.unstable_getBoundingClientRect is coming back as undefined. This usually means that the component's ref isn't properly connected to the underlying native view, or that the view isn't fully mounted and ready when the function is called.

This can happen for a few reasons. Firstly, timing is key. If you're trying to access the dimensions before the component has rendered, you'll run into this issue. Secondly, there might be problems with how you've set up your component's refs. Refs are essentially a way for your React Native code to directly interact with native view instances. If the ref isn't correctly attached, or if the view isn't available, unstable_getBoundingClientRect can't do its job. Finally, make sure the view you are trying to measure is actually a valid view. Sometimes, especially with complex layouts, things can go sideways, and the library might be trying to measure something that isn't ready or doesn't exist yet.

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how to solve this. We'll explore some common culprits and their solutions to help you squash this bug for good.

Troubleshooting Steps: Solutions for the Gorhom Bottom Sheet Error

Alright, let's get down to business and troubleshoot this annoying error. Here are some key steps to try, focusing on the core issues that often trigger this particular error:

1. Ensure Proper Ref Attachment

The first thing to check is whether your ref is correctly attached to the component you're trying to measure. Double-check that you've created a ref using useRef in your component and that you're correctly passing it to the BottomSheet component. Make sure your ref is targeting the correct BottomSheet component and not something else. This is the most common cause, so it's a good place to start.

Here’s a quick example. First, import useRef from React, like so: import React, { useRef } from 'react';. Now, inside your component, create the ref: const bottomSheetRef = useRef(null);. Finally, pass this ref to your BottomSheet component: <BottomSheet ref={bottomSheetRef} ...>. Make sure you're not accidentally assigning the ref to a different element within the BottomSheet’s content, as that’s a common mistake that can lead to this issue.

2. Verify Component Mounting and Timing

Timing is everything, as they say. If you’re trying to access the component's dimensions too early, before it’s fully rendered, you’ll get this error. You can use React's useEffect hook to ensure the component is mounted before trying to access getBoundingClientRect. This hook lets you run code after the component has rendered. Try using useEffect with an empty dependency array ([]) to run the measurement code only after the initial render.

Here’s how you can use it: Add import { useEffect } from 'react'; to your imports. Then, use the hook inside your component: useEffect(() => {if (bottomSheetRef.current) { // Your measurement logic using bottomSheetRef.current.unstable_getBoundingClientRect } }, []);. This way, your measurement code only runs after the BottomSheet is ready.

3. Double-Check Component Visibility

Make sure that the component you are trying to measure is actually visible on the screen. If the BottomSheet is hidden or not rendered when you're trying to get its dimensions, the function will fail. If you’re conditionally rendering the BottomSheet, make sure it’s rendered before attempting to measure it. Also, check that the BottomSheet’s styles don’t include anything that would hide it from view (e.g., display: none; or opacity: 0;).

4. Update Dependencies

Sometimes, outdated dependencies can cause compatibility issues. Check your package.json file to make sure you have the latest versions of @gorhom/bottom-sheet, react-native-gesture-handler, and react-native-reanimated. You may also want to update your React Native version to the latest stable release. It’s a good idea to update dependencies regularly to ensure compatibility and bug fixes.

5. Inspect the BottomSheet Configuration

Carefully review your BottomSheet component's configuration. Make sure you've correctly set up the index, snapPoints, and other properties. Incorrect configurations can lead to unexpected behavior, including this error. If you're using any custom components inside the BottomSheet, verify their setup as well. They might inadvertently interfere with the measurement process. Also, ensure that any animations or transitions you're using are correctly implemented and aren't causing conflicts.

6. Debugging Tools and Console Logs

Use console.log statements to debug. Log the value of your ref (bottomSheetRef.current) before you call unstable_getBoundingClientRect. This will help you verify if the ref is correctly attached and if the component instance is available. You can also log the result of the function call to see what's actually happening. Use React Native's debugging tools (like the React Native Debugger or Chrome DevTools) to inspect your components and identify any issues. These tools let you step through your code and examine variables, which can be invaluable when troubleshooting.

Specific Considerations for React Native 0.82, iOS 26

Since you're using React Native 0.82 and targeting iOS 26, there are a few extra things to consider. These versions might have specific quirks or compatibility issues that you should be aware of. Let's look at those. If you’re on React Native 0.82, ensure that all your native dependencies (like those mentioned earlier) are compatible with this version. Check the documentation for each library to confirm compatibility. Also, review the React Native release notes for 0.82 to see if there are any known issues or breaking changes that might affect your BottomSheet implementation.

1. iOS Version Compatibility

Verify that the versions of the libraries you’re using are fully compatible with iOS 26. This version of iOS might have specific requirements or limitations that could be causing problems. Make sure to check the documentation of your libraries for any iOS-specific instructions or compatibility notes. You might need to adjust some settings to ensure everything works correctly. For example, ensure that your build settings in Xcode are configured correctly for iOS 26. This includes things like the deployment target and any other relevant configurations.

2. Native Modules and Linking

If you're facing persistent issues, double-check that your native modules (like react-native-gesture-handler and react-native-reanimated) are correctly linked to your project. Sometimes, a linking problem can cause these kinds of errors. If you're using automatic linking, make sure it has worked correctly. If not, you may need to manually link the modules by following the instructions in the library's documentation.

3. Xcode Build Settings

Make sure that your Xcode build settings are configured correctly for iOS 26. This includes things like the deployment target and any other relevant configurations. These settings can sometimes affect how native modules interact with your React Native code. Incorrect build settings can lead to unexpected behavior, including this specific error. Pay close attention to any warnings or errors that Xcode displays during the build process, as they might indicate configuration problems.

Putting It All Together: A Practical Example

Let’s put all this together with a practical example. Here’s a basic code snippet demonstrating how to correctly set up a BottomSheet with the necessary ref and measurement logic:

import React, { useRef, useEffect } from 'react';
import { View, Text, StyleSheet } from 'react-native';
import BottomSheet from '@gorhom/bottom-sheet';

const MyComponent = () => {
  const bottomSheetRef = useRef(null);

  useEffect(() => {
    if (bottomSheetRef.current) {
      // Accessing the unstable_getBoundingClientRect here after render.
      const rect = bottomSheetRef.current.unstable_getBoundingClientRect();
      if (rect) {
        console.log('BottomSheet dimensions:', rect);
      } else {
        console.log('getBoundingClientRect failed');
      }
    }
  }, []);

  return (
    <View style={styles.container}>
      <Text>Open Bottom Sheet</Text>
      <BottomSheet
        ref={bottomSheetRef}
        index={0}
        snapPoints={['25%', '50%', '75%']}
      >
        <View style={styles.contentContainer}>
          <Text>Hello from BottomSheet!</Text>
        </View>
      </BottomSheet>
    </View>
  );
};

const styles = StyleSheet.create({
  container: {
    flex: 1,
    paddingTop: 20,
  },
  contentContainer: {
    padding: 20,
  },
});

export default MyComponent;

In this example, we create a ref (bottomSheetRef) using useRef. We then use useEffect to ensure the component has rendered before trying to access unstable_getBoundingClientRect. We check if the ref's current value is not null before attempting to get the dimensions. This structure helps prevent the “is not a function” error and ensures the measurement is performed at the right time.

Conclusion: Keeping Your Bottom Sheets Smooth

Getting the React Native Gorhom Bottom Sheet working seamlessly can sometimes feel like a puzzle, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can overcome these issues. Remember to check your ref attachments, timing, visibility, and dependencies. Keep your code clean, debug diligently, and stay up-to-date with the latest library versions. By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to creating slick and functional bottom sheets in your React Native applications. Happy coding, and may your bottom sheets always slide smoothly!

If you're still stuck, don't hesitate to consult the documentation for @gorhom/bottom-sheet, react-native-gesture-handler, and react-native-reanimated. You can also check the library's GitHub repository for any known issues or discussions. Don't be afraid to ask for help on forums or communities like Stack Overflow. Sharing your code and the steps you've taken can help others provide specific assistance.

Good luck, and keep building awesome apps!