Android apps are bits of software that run on the Android operating system. They can be installed on Android phones, tablets and televisions. They’re extremely efficient in using the touchscreen, camera and GPS features of the device. The addition of numerous apps to an Android device can impact battery performance and life.
Developing Android apps requires an understanding of the Android platform as well as its design principles and frameworks. It also requires a solid app architecture, which can separate UI- and OS-related codes into components that share responsibilities. The system can activate these components asynchronously using a broadcast mechanism that is triggered by the intents.
Kotlin is gaining popularity as a language used in Android development. Both are supported by the Android SDK. A large community of developers is available online to assist newcomers to the language and solve issues.
The Android OS itself is divided into layers, with the application layer comprising the default standard apps that come with the operating system, and also the proprietary apps bundled with a particular device, like the phone dialer or music player. The Android app layer also includes custom firmware, such as CyanogenMod and OMFGB that can be installed on certain devices to alter their functionality.
Another reason that hinders certain apps from working is compatibility. If an app has been pushed out to the US market but isn’t compatible with your European device, it won’t work on it, and will be displayed as “incompatible” in the Play Store.