Resources Every Android Developer Must Know About

by Ken Miller Tech Writer

Within a very short span of time, Android has emerged as the most popular operating system for smartphones and tablets. The rapidly growing popularity of the open source mobile operating system launched by Google also encourages many enterprises to launch new mobile apps. So a gradual increase is noted in the demand for experienced Android application developers. Also, many beginners are learning Android app development to target the recent trends in mobile computing. As the mobile operating system has matured over the years, both experienced developers and beginners have option to access a large collection of resources. A developer must know about and use some of these key resources to optimize the look, feel and performance of the apps without writing longer lines of code.

Important Resources Every Android Developer Must Know About

1. Books

android app development, mobile app development, top mobile app developers

android app development, mobile app development, top mobile app developers

Many people nowadays avoid reading books. But books are still one of the most effective ways to learn Android programming. A developer can further consider building his personal library that can be referred while writing code. Also, each programmer has option to choose from the conventional or digital version of the same book. Some of these books also explain the Android SDK is a detailed and simple way, along with highlighting the frequent updates. Each programmer also has option to choose from a wide variety of books according to his specific needs.

2. Online Articles and Blogs

Whenever a developer needs any information, he simply initiates a web search. In addition to gathering information on a specific aspect of Android app development, a developer can further read the online articles and blogs to stay tuned to the latest trends and updated in mobile application development. It is also a great idea to bookmark certain websites that frequently publish content related to Android development. However, a reader also needs to consider the professional credibility and reputation of the blogger while reading the online articles and blogs.

3. Discussion Forums

Regardless of your experience in developing mobile apps, you will still needs answers to specific questions. That is why; you must know the discussion forums where Android developers frequently post their doubts and answer questions. The online discussion forums will make it easier for you to write code without any interruptions. Some online forums like StackOverFlow.com also allow you to get your questions answered by experiences Android developers, framework engineers and experts.

4. Source Code of Open Source Android Apps

If you are new to Android development, it is advisable to access the source code libraries. As Android is an open source operating system, many developers share the code written by them. Some programmers even distribute code to help others in developing robust apps without putting any extra time and effort. There are also many websites that help beginners to understand specific aspects of mobile application development. For instance, you can access a website to learn how to optimize caching, image loading and displaying.

5. Android SDK

As an open source mobile operating system, Android is open to all types of users and developers. Google further allows developers to access the source code know as Android SDK. However, a programmer needs to download the complete SDK to start developing apps. He has option to download and use specific resources according to the needs of his project. Google recommends developers to use the Eclipse IDE which is available as a simple Android Developer tools plug-in. The plug-in enables programmers to download, install and use only specific SDK.

6. Application Development Frameworks

A programmer must be familiar with several Android application development frameworks to avoid writing lengthy code. Each library provides a set of libraries and tools that help developers in building robust apps at a rapid pace. Further, they can use a set of APIs to perform some of the basis and standard tasks. However, a developer must choose the framework according to the nature and requirements of the app. So he needs to understand some of the widely used Android development frameworks.

In addition to understanding the key Android app development resources, you also need to know some of the important best practices for developing to mobile apps. The combination of these resources and best practices will make it easier for you to build rich and highly engaging apps which get downloaded heavily from the app store.

We provide mobile app development services. If you would like to talk to one of our top mobile app developers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.