How to become an Android Application Developer

The news broke today that android devices new account for 50% of the global smart phone market, making it the world's most popular platform. when Android was introduction in 2007  it was distant 5th mobile platform trailing Apple's iOS, Blackberry (RIM) windows mobile and Symbian. with millions of Android devices in use and an incredible 500,0000+ new Android devices activated daily. the popularity of Android Application is increasing  exponentially and with it the demand for Android application developer is soaring. IT recruiters are re3porting unprecedented demand for talented programmers with Android development training. 

AS with all great opportunities learning Android application development isn't easy. for the non programmer there are several steps in the process and even experienced programmers have quite a bit to learn when adopting Android if you are interested in developing new and innovative applications for the world's #1 mobile platform. here are my six 

1: Gather the Tools: Java, Android SDK, Eclipse + ADT plugin 

Android development can be done on a pc Mac or even a Linux machine. More good news all the tools you need to develop Android application are free. first download and install the latest version of Java SE From the Oracle website. Next grab the Android SDK (Software development Kit) from the android developers site. the SDK includes the android code libraries, Android's emulator and some useful command lines tools for Android development.

Eclipse is the mobile development environment of choices for Android developer, because it integers best with the Android SDK and it's free Download the Eclipse IDE for Java developers from the Eclipse website (Choice the version that matches your OS. Eclipse is a powerful text editor that offers a range of features mobile developers depend on, including syntax highlighting, API documentation and package organization. Finally go back to the Android developers site for the ADT (android development tools) plugin. Using ADT with Eclipse makes creating android applications much easier with features like the UI (user Interface) editor and the android specific debugger.

2: Learn the Java Programing Language

Most android application are written in java (Some are written in C++). A strong Command of java is essential for Android application development . Android Utilizes java's object oriented programing model in object oriented programming elements of the program are broken into press that mimic "Real-world" objects. for example in an Android video game the player  character and enemy combatant would each be projects. 

if you're looking for a comprehensive online training program to go from beginner to skilled Android (and iOS) developer check out the mobile development bachelor program full sail university it covers the business marketing and programing  aspects of professionals mobile app development you can break it down the take just the modules you need and it's accredited so state and federal financial aid is available.

3: Understand the Android Application Lifecycle

Even if you've written desktop or web application before, it's critical to understand that writing apps for mobiles devices is a completely different experience. with a desktop applications the operating system manages other application and their priorities. In Android it's up to you to code your application to handle external events. for example what does your application do if the phone rings in the middle of a resources consuming animation how does your application react to the receipt of a text message understanding the Android application lifecycle will enable you to create application that play nice with others, thus providing users with the best possible experience.

4: Learn the Android API

While android application are written in the java programing language the Android API (Application programming interface) adds entirely new packages to the command set. The android package (Group of classes) allow you write code that controls everything from the on board camera and the audio recording features, to Bluetooth functionality and Wi-Fi access and much more. once you have a strong command of these packages you will be able to implement the hardware and features of Android devices in your mobile application.

5: Write your First Android Application

writing your first complete Android App can seem daunting but the process will be easier and more pleasurable if you choose a topic that you enjoy. write your application in multiple iterations starting with the basic features and expanding its capabilities with each pass. debug and test carefully along the way tom ensure that your application work in all situation testing should be conducted on an actual android device as well as in the emulator.

6 :  distributed your android app 

android application can be distributed through the official android market your on website or through a third party site such as the amazon.com App store for Android. To distribute your application through the official Android market. you must register as an official Android developer which at the time of this writing is a one time fee of $25. unlike Apple's App store, Google's standard for application acceptance are fairly lax.

Android development it is a challenges from of programing however the personal and financial rewards can be greats keep in mind that the career of a programmer involves a lifetime of learning. and that learning Android application development just part of that lifelong journey. have fun and good luck.