Android™ Tablet Application Development For Dummies®

The Android Development Process

The Android development process is quite simple. Using high-level Java language, you can write and create compelling apps that engage your users. Another great thing about Android is that the financial barriers to entry are low. You can start building applications with freely available tools on the Internet. This all means you can focus on writing feature-rich apps instead of figuring out how to just get started.

Installing the tools, frameworks, and SDKs

The tools, frameworks, and SDKs are freely available online, so you can begin writing applications quickly. The frameworks and SDKs are easily installed by following a simple process that is outlined in Chapter 4 as well as online in the Android SDK documentation. Google has done a great job of helping you get started quickly and for as little financial commitment as possible.

Designing your feature-rich application

A feature-rich application could be as simple as allowing the user to swipe left and right to expose new screens, or it could be an e-mail client that notifies you when you have new e-mail by vibrating the device. Designing a feature-rich application does not mean that the graphics are gradients and drop shadows look perfect, rather it means that the application you're designing has the necessary features to go beyond what the end user expected. The best advice I can provide is to think outside the box and use a mind-mapping tool, such as Mind Meister (www.mindmeister.com) to help facilitate ...