Google Development Tools

Google Android SDKs

You've heard the buzz about Google Android. What you may not know is that the Google Android SDK is free and that it gives you everything you need to create cool applications for Android-powered devices.

Mobil technology is more important than ever for small businesses.

Companies who can navigate in a mobile landscape thrive, while those who neglect the value of mobile technology will increasingly fall by the wayside as the world moves toward more complex - and more portable technologies.

Google Android is a major player in the mobile marketplace. There are currently more than 70,000 Android apps available to users of Android devices. But to take full advantage of its benefits, consumers and business users need the ability to develop applications that are tailored to their company's unique demands and job requirements.

Google Android SDKs (Software Development Kits) leverage Android's open development platform, making it possible for developers to create innovative business applications. Developers can completely exploit the potential of Android devices, access location information, run background services, set alarms & notifications and perform many other app-related functions.

Google describes Android as a software stack for mobile devices. Android technology includes an operating system, middleware and a key application. Android SDKs equip tech-savvy business developers with the tools and development libraries necessary to generate mobile applications for Android-powered devices.

Navigating Android SDKs does require a certain level of technical expertise. But for the most part, Android SDKs are designed to be used by novice and professional developers who are eager to begin the process of creating Androids apps for business or personal use.

How It Works

To facilitate the development process, Google offers a simple process for downloading and utilizing Android SDKs. Android SDKs are fairly powerful development kits; they give developers a robust set of development tools including a debugger, libraries, a handset emulator, documentation, sample code and tutorials.

After you have made sure the computer you will use for development meets the hardware and software requirements for Android SDKs, you will need to download and install an SDK starter package. Using the Android SDK and AVD Manager included in the starter package, you can add one or more Android platforms and additional components to the SDK.

The Android developers website offers a blog and other resources to inspire development ideas and guide your efforts. Since Android apps are widespread (and growing in leaps and bounds), you can also take advantage of a multitude of Android SDK online development communities where developers gather to share knowledge and techniques.

Share this article

Additional Resources for Entrepreneurs

Lists of Venture Capital and Private Equity Firms

Franchise Opportunities

Contributors

Business Glossary