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Android Development Basics

The document provides an overview of various Android development topics, including SMS telephony, location-based services, Google Maps integration, and app security. It outlines important classes, methods, and permissions needed for functionalities like sending SMS, fetching location, and displaying maps. Additionally, it covers the steps for generating signed APKs, publishing apps on the Play Store, and monitoring app performance post-release.

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Nawaz Wariya
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© © All Rights Reserved
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
7 views

Android Development Basics

The document provides an overview of various Android development topics, including SMS telephony, location-based services, Google Maps integration, and app security. It outlines important classes, methods, and permissions needed for functionalities like sending SMS, fetching location, and displaying maps. Additionally, it covers the steps for generating signed APKs, publishing apps on the Play Store, and monitoring app performance post-release.

Uploaded by

Nawaz Wariya
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 10

📱 1.

SMS Telephony in Android


SMS Telephony means sending and receiving SMS messages (text messages) from an Android app.

Important Classes:
SmsManager : Used to send SMS messages.

BroadcastReceiver : To receive SMS messages.

Simple Code to Send an SMS:

java Copy Edit

SmsManager smsManager = SmsManager.getDefault(); smsManager.sendTextMessage(phoneNumber, null,


message, null, null);

Full Example:

java Copy Edit

String phoneNumber = "9876543210"; String message = "Hello! This is a test SMS."; SmsManager
smsManager = SmsManager.getDefault(); smsManager.sendTextMessage(phoneNumber, null, message,
null, null);

Don't forget to add permission in AndroidManifest.xml :

xml Copy Edit

<uses-permission android:name="android.permission.SEND_SMS"/>

Real-life Applications:
Sending OTPs (One-Time Passwords)

Sending booking confirmations

Alert messages from banks

📍 2. Location-Based Services (LBS) in Android


Location-Based Services (LBS) are apps/services that use your current location to offer services.

Methods to Get Current Location:


1. GPS Provider — very accurate, but slow indoors.

2. Network Provider — uses mobile tower/WiFi — faster but less accurate.

3. Fused Location Provider — combines all sources (best method).

Simple Code Example to Fetch Location:

java Copy Edit

FusedLocationProviderClient fusedLocationClient =
LocationServices.getFusedLocationProviderClient(this); fusedLocationClient.getLastLocation()
.addOnSuccessListener(this, location -> { if (location != null) { double latitude =
location.getLatitude(); double longitude = location.getLongitude(); } });

Permission needed in AndroidManifest.xml :

xml Copy Edit

<uses-permission android:name="android.permission.ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION"/>

Two Advantages of LBS:


Real-time navigation (like Google Maps)

Showing nearby restaurants, hotels, ATMs, etc.


🔑 3. How to Get an API Key for Using Google
Services
Step-by-Step to Get API Key:
1. Go to Google Cloud Console.

2. Create a New Project or select an existing project.

3. Go to "APIs & Services" → "Credentials".

4. Click “Create Credentials” → “API Key”.

5. Copy the API Key generated.

6. (Optional) Restrict your API key for security.

Why API Keys are Important:


They authenticate your app to use Google services.

They track usage and prevent misuse.

Real-life Example:
An app like Uber needs an API Key to show Google Maps inside the app.

🗺️ 4. Google Maps in Android


Google Maps help developers integrate interactive maps inside Android apps.

Types of Google Maps:


Normal Map — Standard view.

Satellite Map — Real-world satellite images.

Terrain Map — Shows mountains, rivers.

Hybrid Map — Mix of Normal + Satellite.

Basic Syntax:

xml Copy Edit

<com.google.android.gms.maps.MapView android:id="@+id/mapView"
android:layout_width="match_parent" android:layout_height="match_parent" />

Important Methods:
getMapAsync() : Loads the map.

addMarker() : Adds a marker.

moveCamera() : Moves camera to a location.

Simple Code Example to Integrate Map:


java Copy Edit

SupportMapFragment mapFragment = (SupportMapFragment) getSupportFragmentManager()


.findFragmentById(R.id.map); mapFragment.getMapAsync(googleMap -> { LatLng location = new
LatLng(-34, 151); googleMap.addMarker(new MarkerOptions().position(location).title("Marker"));
googleMap.moveCamera(CameraUpdateFactory.newLatLng(location)); });

Add permission:

xml Copy Edit

<uses-permission android:name="android.permission.INTERNET" /> <uses-permission


android:name="android.permission.ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION" />

Two Uses of Google Maps in Mobile Apps:


Showing delivery tracking (like Zomato/Swiggy).

Showing user location (ride apps like Ola, Uber).


🔍 5. Zoom Control in Android Maps
Zoom Control allows users to zoom in or out on the map easily.

Syntax to Enable Zoom Controls:


java Copy Edit

googleMap.getUiSettings().setZoomControlsEnabled(true);

Full Code Example:


java Copy Edit

SupportMapFragment mapFragment = (SupportMapFragment) getSupportFragmentManager()


.findFragmentById(R.id.map); mapFragment.getMapAsync(googleMap -> {
googleMap.getUiSettings().setZoomControlsEnabled(true); });

Why Zoom Control is Important:


Helps users focus on small areas or view large regions easily.

Especially useful in apps like real estate (property location), tourism maps, etc.

✅ First 5 Questions Completed!


Would you like me to continue with Questions 6–10 in the next set? 🚀
(If yes, just say "continue!")

next 5

Sure! Let's continue with Questions 6–10:

📍 6. How to Show a Marker on a Location


Using Google Maps in Android
To show a marker on a map, you use the addMarker() method from the Google Maps API.

Step-by-Step Process:
1. Set up the map using SupportMapFragment .

2. Get the map object using getMapAsync() .

3. Add a marker to the map with addMarker() .

Syntax and Methods:


addMarker() : Adds a marker at the specified location.

MarkerOptions() : Used to define the marker's properties.

Simple Code Example:


java Copy Edit

SupportMapFragment mapFragment = (SupportMapFragment) getSupportFragmentManager()


.findFragmentById(R.id.map); mapFragment.getMapAsync(googleMap -> { LatLng location = new
LatLng(37.7749, -122.4194); // San Francisco coordinates googleMap.addMarker(new
MarkerOptions().position(location).title("Marker in San Francisco"));
googleMap.moveCamera(CameraUpdateFactory.newLatLng(location)); });

Real-Life Use Case:


Taxi/ride-sharing apps (like Uber) place markers at pick-up and drop-off points to show user locations
and nearby cabs.
🌍 7. Geocoding and Reverse Geocoding in
Android
Geocoding is the process of converting an address into latitude and longitude coordinates.
Reverse Geocoding is the opposite: converting latitude and longitude into a human-readable address.

Geocoding Example:
Purpose: To get the latitude and longitude of a location (e.g., "New York").

Syntax:

java Copy Edit

Geocoder geocoder = new Geocoder(this, Locale.getDefault()); List<Address> addresses =


geocoder.getFromLocationName("New York", 1); Address address = addresses.get(0); double
latitude = address.getLatitude(); double longitude = address.getLongitude();

Reverse Geocoding Example:


Purpose: To convert latitude and longitude into an address.

Syntax:

java Copy Edit

Geocoder geocoder = new Geocoder(this, Locale.getDefault()); List<Address> addresses =


geocoder.getFromLocation(latitude, longitude, 1); Address address = addresses.get(0); String
fullAddress = address.getAddressLine(0);

Real-Life Example:
Ride-hailing apps use reverse geocoding to show users their current location (e.g., "123 Main St, New
York") before booking a ride.

📍 8. Location Data in Android


Location Data includes information like the user’s current position (latitude and longitude). Android provides
several ways to get this data.

(A) Different Location Sources:


1. GPS — Provides the most accurate location but requires clear sky.

2. Network Provider — Uses cell towers and Wi-Fi signals; faster, but less accurate.

3. Fused Location Provider — Combines GPS, Wi-Fi, and cell towers to give the best result.

(B) Monitor Location Changes:


To monitor location changes, you can use FusedLocationProviderClient to get periodic updates.

Syntax:

java Copy Edit

LocationRequest locationRequest = LocationRequest.create(); locationRequest.setInterval(10000);


// 10 seconds interval locationRequest.setPriority(LocationRequest.PRIORITY_HIGH_ACCURACY);
FusedLocationProviderClient fusedLocationClient =
LocationServices.getFusedLocationProviderClient(this);
fusedLocationClient.requestLocationUpdates(locationRequest, locationCallback,
Looper.getMainLooper());

Best method for high accuracy: Using FusedLocationProviderClient with high accuracy setting.

Example:
Fitness apps monitor location changes to track the user’s movement.

🔒 9. Android Security Model


Android security is designed to protect user data and prevent unauthorized access to apps.
Main Features:
1. Permissions: Apps must request permission to access sensitive data like location, contacts, etc.

2. App Sandboxing: Every app runs in its own isolated environment.

3. Encryption: Android uses encryption to protect user data both at rest (stored data) and in transit (data
being sent).

Example:
When you open a bank app, Android ensures your financial data is safe by using encryption and permission
checks.

Important Methods:
Context.checkSelfPermission() to check if an app has the necessary permissions.

KeyStore for storing cryptographic keys securely.

🔑 10. Permissions in Android


Permissions are required to access sensitive features or data, such as location, camera, or contacts.

How to Declare Permissions:


1. In the AndroidManifest.xml , add the permission. Example:

xml Copy Edit

<uses-permission android:name="android.permission.ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION" />

2. Enforce Permissions:

Before accessing a sensitive feature, check if the app has permission. If not, request it.

java Copy Edit

if (ContextCompat.checkSelfPermission(this, Manifest.permission.ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION) !=
PackageManager.PERMISSION_GRANTED) { ActivityCompat.requestPermissions(this, new String[]
{Manifest.permission.ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION}, REQUEST_CODE); }

Why Permissions Are Important:


Permissions help protect users from unauthorized access. For instance, an app that asks for camera
permission should only access it when required.

Real-Life Example:
In a camera app, permissions are crucial to ensure the app only uses the camera when you're actively taking
pictures.

✅ Questions 6–10 answered!


Would you like me to continue with Questions 11–15 next? Just let me know! 🚀

next 5

Sure! Let's continue with Questions 11–15:

📜 11. How to Generate a Signed APK or


Signed App Manually in Android?
Before publishing an Android app, it must be signed with a private key. This ensures the app's authenticity
and security.

Steps to Generate a Signed APK:


1. Create a Keystore (if you don't have one):
Open Android Studio.

Go to Build > Generate Signed Bundle/APK.

Select APK and click Next.

Choose Create new under the Key store section and fill in the required details.

2. Configure the Keystore:

Key Store Path: Choose a location to store the .jks file.

Key Alias: A name for the key.

Key Password: A password for the key.

Validity: Set the validity (e.g., 25 years).

Key Password: Set the password again.

3. Build the APK:

After creating the keystore, Android Studio will generate a signed APK.

4. Finish:

Click Next and then Finish to generate the APK.

Why is signing important?


Signing ensures the app is authentic and prevents tampering. Apps without a signature can't be
installed on devices.

🛠️ 12. How to Publish an Android App on the


Play Store and Become a Publisher?
Publishing an app on the Play Store allows it to be accessed by millions of users. Here's how to do it:

Steps:
1. Create a Developer Account:

Go to the Google Play Console.

Pay the one-time registration fee of $25 (USD).

Fill in your developer profile.

2. Prepare the APK:

Ensure the APK is signed (as described above).

Check if the app is ready for release (no debugging code or unnecessary permissions).

3. Upload the APK:

In the Play Console, click Create Application.

Select a language and enter the app's details (title, description, screenshots).

Under Release Management, upload your APK.

4. Set Pricing & Distribution:

Choose if the app will be free or paid.

Select the countries where it will be available.

5. Review and Publish:

Once all information is filled, click Publish.

Requirements and Documents:


App Icon: 512x512 pixels.

Screenshots: At least 2 screenshots for different device types (phone, tablet).

App Description: Brief and informative.

Rules to Avoid Rejection:


Ensure your app complies with Google Play policies.

Test thoroughly before submitting.


🔒 13. How to Prepare Your App for Release?
Before releasing your app to users, you must ensure it's optimized, secure, and free of errors.

Steps to Prepare Your App for Release:


1. Optimize Your App:

Remove unused resources.

Minimize APK size using Proguard.

Optimize images and assets for faster loading.

2. Set Release Mode:

In Android Studio, switch to Release Mode (instead of Debug).

Set minSdkVersion, targetSdkVersion, and version code properly in build.gradle .

3. Test Thoroughly:

Test the app on different devices and screen sizes.

Check for performance issues.

4. Remove Debugging Code:

Remove any Log statements or testing code that shouldn't be in the release version.

Debug Mode vs Release Mode:


Debug Mode: Used for development; includes debugging tools, logs, and detailed error messages.

Release Mode: Optimized for performance; no debugging info or logs.

🚀 14. How to Release an Android App to


Users?
Releasing an app involves beta testing, reviewing, and finally making it available for the public.

Steps:
1. Beta Testing:

Use Google Play Console to release the app to a small group for feedback.

Choose a testing method (internal or open beta).

2. Review Process:

Once beta testing is complete, submit the app for review.

Google will perform a security check and review the app's content and functionality.

3. Final Release:

After passing the review, publish the app to the Play Store.

Make it available to users worldwide.

Why Proper Release Planning is Important:


Helps avoid bugs or security issues after launch.

Ensures a smoother user experience and avoids Play Store rejections.

📊 15. What is the Developer Console in


Android?
The Google Play Console is a web-based interface that allows developers to manage their apps on the Play
Store.

Features:
1. Track App Performance: View app downloads, ratings, and user feedback.

2. Manage Releases: Upload new versions, track updates, and handle app promotions.

3. Monetize Your App: Set pricing, subscription plans, and in-app purchases.
4. Analytics: Monitor user engagement, crash reports, and performance metrics.

Example: Using the Console for Tracking:


App Downloads: Check how many times your app has been downloaded.

Crash Reports: View which parts of your app are causing crashes and fix them.

✅ Questions 11–15 answered!


Would you like me to continue with Questions 16–20 next? Just let me know! 🚀

n ext 5

Here are the answers for Questions 16–20:

📊 16. What Are the Steps to Monitor App


Performance After Publishing on Play Store?
Monitoring app performance is crucial to ensure the app runs smoothly and improves over time. Google Play
Console offers tools to help developers track various metrics.

Steps:
1. Log in to Google Play Console: Go to the Google Play Console and log in with your developer account.

2. View App Statistics:

Under the Statistics section, view key metrics like Downloads, Revenue, Retention Rate,
and Ratings.

3. Check Crash Reports:

Under Android Vitals, view crash statistics. The console highlights apps with high crash rates.

4. Analyze User Feedback:

View user reviews and ratings in the Reviews section. Address negative feedback and improve
based on suggestions.

5. Use Google Analytics:

Integrate Google Analytics to track specific user actions within your app.

Real-life Benefit:
Example: A game app developer uses crash reports to identify that a certain feature causes crashes. By
fixing it, they improve the app’s rating and reduce churn.

🔒 17. Explain How Android Protects Users'


Private Data Through Security Features?
Android provides several layers of protection to ensure user data remains secure from unauthorized access.

Key Security Features:


1. Permissions:

Apps must ask for permissions to access sensitive data like location, contacts, camera, etc.

Example: Location permission: The app needs user consent to access their location.

2. App Sandboxing:

Each app runs in its own isolated environment, preventing other apps from accessing its data unless
explicitly shared.

3. Data Encryption:

Android encrypts sensitive data stored on the device, making it unreadable to unauthorized users
or apps.
4. Biometric Authentication:

Android supports biometric authentication (fingerprint, face recognition) for sensitive app actions
like payments.

Real-World Example:
Banking apps: Use biometric authentication (fingerprint) and data encryption to ensure secure
transactions and account access.

📍 18. List and Explain Different Methods


Available to Improve Location Accuracy in
Android Apps?
Accurate location data is essential for apps like maps, navigation, and local services.

Methods to Improve Location Accuracy:


1. GPS:

Accuracy: Very high, especially outdoors.

Use: Best for apps requiring high accuracy like navigation apps.

2. Wi-Fi-based Location:

Accuracy: Moderate (can be more accurate indoors).

Use: Works well in urban areas or indoors where GPS signals are weak.

3. Network Provider:

Accuracy: Lower than GPS and Wi-Fi.

Use: Ideal for situations where high accuracy is not required (e.g., checking if a user is in a city).

Code Example:

java Copy Edit

LocationRequest locationRequest = LocationRequest.create();


locationRequest.setPriority(LocationRequest.PRIORITY_HIGH_ACCURACY); // Use GPS for high
accuracy FusedLocationProviderClient fusedLocationProviderClient =
LocationServices.getFusedLocationProviderClient(this);
fusedLocationProviderClient.requestLocationUpdates(locationRequest, locationCallback,
Looper.getMainLooper());

🔑 19. How to Handle App Permissions


Dynamically at Runtime in Android?
Since Android 6.0 (Marshmallow), apps need to request permissions at runtime, not just in the manifest.

Steps to Handle Permissions:


1. Check if Permission is Granted:

Use ContextCompat.checkSelfPermission() to see if a permission is granted.

2. Request Permission:

If permission isn't granted, use ActivityCompat.requestPermissions() to request it.

3. Handle Permission Result:

Override onRequestPermissionsResult() to handle the user's response.

Code Example:

java Copy Edit

if (ContextCompat.checkSelfPermission(this, Manifest.permission.ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION) !=
PackageManager.PERMISSION_GRANTED) { ActivityCompat.requestPermissions(this, new String[]
{Manifest.permission.ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION}, 1); }

Why Dynamic Permissions Are Important:


Apps can request permissions only when needed, ensuring better security and user control.

For instance, an app may request location permission only when the user tries to access a location-
based feature.

📱 20. Write the Best Practices to Follow


Before Publishing an Android App?
Before releasing an Android app to the Play Store, it's essential to ensure that it’s optimized, secure, and
ready for users.

Best Practices:
1. Test Thoroughly:

Test your app on various devices and screen sizes.

Use Firebase Test Lab for automated testing on real devices.

2. Optimize the App:

Reduce the app size (use Proguard, optimize images, remove unused resources).

Ensure fast loading times and smooth performance.

3. Check Permissions:

Ask for permissions only when absolutely necessary, and provide an explanation to the user if
needed.

4. Prepare for Security:

Remove any hardcoded secrets or sensitive data.

Use HTTPS for communication and data transfer.

5. Enhance User Experience:

Ensure a clean, intuitive user interface.

Make navigation easy and provide clear error messages.

Bonus Tip:
App Analytics: Integrate Google Analytics or Firebase Analytics before launch to track user behavior and
engagement.

✅ Questions 16–20 answered!


Let me know if you need further explanations or more answers!

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