React Native is gaining popularity as a mobile development framework because it allows developers to write one codebase that works on both Android and iOS platforms. This eliminates the need for separate development teams for each platform and speeds up development. React Native compiles the JavaScript code into native Android and iOS code, providing a native user experience. It is actively maintained by Facebook and its large community. Many large companies like Facebook, Instagram, and Airbnb now use React Native for their mobile apps.