Android Programming 101
Android is a software platform for mobile devices. It is complete with operating system, middleware and applications. Google, Inc bought Android in 2005, and runs the Android App Market, which has a large community of developers who write apps. Other competitive platforms include Symbian, Apple iOS and Windows Phone 7. Unlike the other platforms, Android was met with much attention due to its limitless number of useful applications, like Doodle Jump and Angry Birds. Convinced? Android programming is not as hard as it sounds.
This article is for people who already have experience with programming, at least the basics. Android apps are coded in Java programming language, so I strongly recommend reading a few articles on Java. Before we start, why choose Android?
Android is equipped with a feature-packed application framework, allowing developers to build rich and innovative applications. Enhancing code reusability and component creation. Running on a Dalvik virtual machine, it enables Android applications to run on different hardware configurations. Packed with the latest database and graphics libraries, it also offers a rich development environment for device testing and debugging.
This article aims to get you on your feet. So, just follow these steps and start coding right away!
Note: If you have not studied Java yet, then do that first. (seriously)
Step 1: Install an IDE (Integrated Development Environment)
Like any other programming languages, you will need to install an IDE. An IDE is usually software that provides most of the tools necessary for coding programs, like editor, compiler, debugger, etc. Again, let me remind you that Java is a must learn to write Android apps. I recommend using Eclipse IDE, it is one of the best free Java IDE’s around, and it is used by most universities. Another popular choice would be Netbeans.
Step 2: Get Android SDK
Next, you will need a specialized set of tools, which are provided by the Android SDK. If you are using Eclipse IDE, just install the Android Development Tools plug in. Using Eclipse is very much preferred for Android application development because of its ease of use.
Step 3: Set Up Android Devices
When the application is finished, next thing is to install the application on a hardware device. A more efficient choice is the use of virtual devices, so you no longer need to configure hardware devices, everything will be run on your computer. An emulator will then execute your application right on your desktop.
Step 4: Create New Project
Creating an Android project is the same as creating any other projects, source codes will be included in the package. The project will be built into an .apk package, to be installed on your device.
Step 5: Integration Testing
The Android SDK contains various tools for debugging your program, complete with emulators that help test your applications with various virtual devices. The Eclipse IDE also comes with a compatible debugger, which is a big plus.
Android Programming is evolving. With each single day, hundreds of apps are developed and released. I recommend participating in forums and groups for the latest updates and tools for Android app development.
Thank you very much for reading this article and good luck with writing Android Apps!
For more info, visit the official Android website.
Claudius is a professional author and writer of several Software Design blogs. He currently writes for Cheap Nokia Phones, an extensive mobile phone review website. The site provides unbiased and actual reviews of the latest and cheapest nokia phones.
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