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Learn how to keep links with target="_blank" in React Native's WebView without redirecting to the external browser. Optimize your web experience today!
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How to Disable RN's WebView from Redirecting to the Browser

In the world of mobile app development, creating a seamless experience for users is of utmost importance. One common issue that developers face while using React Native's WebView is the redirection of links with target="_blank" to an external browser. This can disrupt the user flow, causing frustration. If you'd prefer to keep users within your app, this guide is here to help you achieve that.

The Problem

When a user clicks on a link designed to open in a new tab (using target="_blank"), the default behavior for the WebView is to open that link in an external browser. This is not the desired behavior for many applications, as it takes users out of the app and can lead to a poor user experience. The question many developers often ask is:

How can I disable RN's WebView from jumping to the browser when these links are clicked?

The Solution

Fortunately, there's a straightforward solution to prevent the WebView from redirecting to the browser. By making a simple change to how the WebView is configured, you can maintain the user within the app while allowing them to click on these links.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Locate Your WebView Component: Find where the WebView component is implemented in your React Native project.

Modify the Properties: Add the following property to your WebView component:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

This property instructs the WebView to not support the creation of multiple windows, which effectively means it will open all links right within the same instance of the WebView instead of navigating to an external browser.

Why This Works

Preventing Redirection: By setting setSupportMultipleWindows to false, any link that would normally open in a new tab will now open in the existing WebView interface, keeping the user anchored within the app environment.

User Experience Enhancement: This approach not only resolves the problem of external redirection but also creates a more integrated browsing experience for users.

Additional Considerations

Testing: After implementing this change, ensure to test the WebView thoroughly to confirm that all links function correctly without transitioning to external browsers.

JS Injection: While some developers might consider using JavaScript to handle the behavior of target="_blank" links, this solution provides an alternative that does not require any JS injection, which can complicate the codebase and maintenance.

Conclusion

Disabling React Native's WebView from jumping to an external browser when links with target="_blank" are clicked is simple and effective. By setting setSupportMultipleWindows to false, you ensure that your users remain engaged with your application without unnecessary interruptions. This small change can significantly enhance user satisfaction and overall app usability.

Now, you can confidently manage how links open in your app, providing a smoother experience that users will appreciate. Give it a try and see how much more cohesive your app feels!