Android apps are revolutionizing our daily lives. Even though it might seem daunting to learn Android app development, it can open doors and give you a fresh perspective.
If you’re interested in learning a new skill, or creating an app for your company, then you can follow the steps below. We have discussed in this article the How To Develop Android App process in five steps.
The procedure may not be difficult, but we can’t guarantee that it will. If you’re tech-savvy, you won’t have any problems getting a grip.
Let’s dive into Android app development without much further ado.
1. Get the Essential Tools for Android App Development
Preparing the tools is the first step to any task. There is no ambiguity in Android app development. You should start your task by downloading all the required tools.
First, verify and confirm that the tools are compatible with your computer. Start by downloading Android Studio or Android SDK. These two programs can be purchased together. An android app development company in India is the best choice for developing top-notch mobile apps.
Android Studio is now an integrated development environment. This tool’s sole purpose is to give you the ability to code and access other vital tools. The app also includes APIs from Android SDK. It gives you access to the OS’s native features.
Gradle with APK is another tool that can be used to develop Android apps. You also have another option. Unity is another option. Unity is the ideal tool, especially if you plan to develop cross-platform games.
Visual Studio can be combined with Xamarin. No matter which tool you choose, you can still complete the setup using an on-screen guidance. Let’s get started with Android app development.
2. Start a project
After you have completed downloading and installing the tool the environment that you need will be created. It means that you can now start a project. You may have to follow different steps depending on which tool you use.
Here are the steps to Android Studio.
It is very simple. You will need to make some decisions throughout the process. The outcome of your decisions will impact the app you create. Take the time to consider your options and make a decision.
Navigate to File, then select New. Next, click on the New Project option. You will need to select a Project Template. This template will determine the UI for your app.
Here, you’ll see the word Activity. The term Activity is used in Android app development. It is a screen. If there is no activity, the screen will be empty. Basic Activity, on the other hand, means that the app screen will display a start screen and a hamburger menu.
It can be difficult to grasp the whole idea of Activity. You can take a look at the details and choose options that don’t require much coding.
Next, you will need to choose a name and a package name. The name is what users will see, while the package name is an internal reference that will distinguish your app from other apps.
Package names usually include the domain name and the app name. For example, com. android app. sample. Next, you will need to decide whether to write the code using Java or Kotlin. This will also determine where the files are stored.
We have listed here the benefits of each.
Java
- Officially supported by Google and Android Studio
- Professionals use it extensively
- Google supports the longest
- One of the most in-demand programming languages
- There are many opportunities for the developer
Kotlin
- At the moment, this is Google’s top pick
- When developing an app, it is the default.
- Comparatively, it is much easier to learn
- Potential to be the most loved one
After you have decided whether Java or Kotlin is the best choice, you can choose the minimum SDK. The smaller your user base, the lower you can go.
3. Get to know the Files
As a developer, it is important to familiarize yourself with the files. It can seem overwhelming at times. It will get easier as you go along.
The main logic file will be our first step. Depending on which programming language you choose, it will be MainActivity.java/MainActivity.kt. To access the main logic file, follow the My Application > App>>> path.
As you proceed, remember that the folders that you use are crucial. Depending on which folder you use, Andoird Studio (or whatever tool you’re using) will find the codes and execute them correctly.
Don’t rename folders. There will now be boilerplate code. These codes will be found on the main page. These can be used to duplicate other features or apps.
Layout files
Layout files are another important aspect of Android app development. The layout files can be customized to suit the programming language. The functionality of the layout files will however be different depending on the programming language.
Follow this path to locate the layout files: My application > App> > RES > Layout. You can’t use capital letters to refer to files you store in the Resources folder. You can also use the Underscore symbol.
Other important files and folders will also be found. The Android Manifest file is responsible for defining important features of the app. You will also see a folder called Drawable, which you can find under RES. This folder can be used to keep future references.
Next, you will find a folder called Values which stores your values when you launch your application. Gradle will then be available. Gradle converts all files to a usable APK. This is crucial for testing the app.
4. Check the application
You will need to create an app that says “Hello World” as you learn a new programming language. This is a simple task, and you can see the XML to find the label.
You’ll now see a green play button at the top of the controls. The left side will display a drop-down menu. This blog already contains an Android emulator, which came with Android Studio. To run a test, click the green arrow. You’ll be able to see the app on an Android smartphone.
If you need to change any settings, such as Screen size or space, please go to Tools. Navigate to Tools, then AVD Manger. The test can also be run by connecting any Android device.
After you’re satisfied with the interface, launch the app. This is the final step in Android app development.
5. Keep Practicing
Practice is the best way to master any skill. You should do the same with Android app development. Once you’ve created an app successfully, you are now familiar with the basics.
You must continue to edit the code and learn new things. Only practice can make you better.
You can learn basic codes and then use them to modify the app that you have just created. It will take some time to master Android app development. You should also remember that not everything can be learned in one go.
Choose a subject you are interested in learning and start working on it. You should focus on one feature at a time.
Concluding
There are many opportunities for Android app development. Mobile apps are becoming more important. App development is a great way to make a career. Give it a shot. 4 Way Technologies can provide professional assistance if you require it.
