Android Application Development For Dummies


The fun and friendly guide to creating applications on the Android platform

The popularity of the Android market is soaring with no sign of slowing down. The open nature of the Android OS offers programmers the freedom to access the platform's capabilities and this straightforward guide walks you through the steps for creating amazing Android applications. Android programming expert Donn Felker explains how to download the SDK, get Eclipse up and running, code Android applications, and submit your finished products to the Android Market. Featuring two sample programs, this introductory book explores everything from the simple basics to more advanced aspects of the Android platform.

  • Takes you soup through nuts of developing applications for the Android platform
  • Begins with downloading the SDK, then explains how to code Android applications and submit projects to the Android Market
  • Written by Android guru Donn Felker, who breaks every aspect of developing applications for the Android platform into easily digestible pieces

No matter your level of programming experience, Android Application Development For Dummies is an ideal guide for getting started with developing applications for the Android platform.

From the Back Cover

Here's just what you need to start developing feature-rich, amazing Android apps

Even if you've never written a mobile application, this book has the know-how you need to turn your great ideas into cool apps for the Android platform. With millions of smartphone users and a cornucopia of carriers, Android is a great place to ply the app development trade. This book shows you from the ground up how to set up your environment and create an app. Read on to become an Android developer extraordinaire!

  • Welcome to Android — learn what makes a great Android app, how to use the SDK, ways to work with mobile screens, and how the development process works

  • Make users happy — find out how to design an interface that mobile users will love

  • Learn the code — work with the activity lifecycle and Android framework classes, use the Eclipse debugger, and create a home screen widget for your app

  • Beyond the basics — take your skills up a notch with apps that involve SQLite databases and multiple screens

  • Price and publish — pick the right price for your app and get it into the Android Market

Open the book and find:

  • Cool ways to use the accelerometer in your app

  • How to turn mobile limitations into opportunities

  • Tips on installing and setting up the tools

  • Step-by-step coding directions

  • Ways to make your apps more marketable

  • How to create really useful menus

  • Advice on app pricing

  • Ten great sample apps and SDKs, including code

Learn to:

  • Create apps for hot smartphones like Droid X, Galaxy S, and MyTouch

  • Download the SDK and get Eclipse up and running

  • Code Android applications

  • Submit your apps to the Android Market