Quick answer: Construct 3 mobile app build erroring on plugin version mismatch? Cordova plugins update independently — older C3 projects may pin incompatible versions.

A long-running mobile project starts failing builds after a build service update; one plugin moved past its compatible major version.

Pin Versions

In the project’s mobile build settings, pin each Cordova plugin to a known-good version. Auto-update can break compatibility silently.

Test Updates Separately

When updating a plugin, test in a branch. Verify build, install, runtime behavior on both iOS and Android. Merge after confirmation.

Read Plugin Changelogs

Most plugins have changelogs. Breaking changes (new permission, new init API) flag risk. Schedule the upgrade window.

Switch to Capacitor

For modern mobile builds, Capacitor is the more actively-maintained alternative. C3 supports both build pipelines — consider migration on a major project refresh.

Verifying

Builds succeed; plugin features work on devices; iOS App Store / Google Play submissions pass review.

“Cordova plugin versions matter. Pin them; test upgrades; consider Capacitor for new projects.”

Document the pinned plugin versions in your project README — rebuilding from scratch a year later otherwise hits the same version drift.