How to Become an Android Developer

An android developer creates the applications and systems used on android smartphones, tablets, and other devices. They create the programme, fix any bugs, and update systems when necessary.

Android development is an in-demand career. Android is the world leader of smartphones, so there is a lot of job security, and the use of Android apps is only increasing. 

An Android developer is a software developer who has expertise in the Android marketplace. Using their niche Android knowledge, they create, install, troubleshoot, and update Android applications. These applications can be anything from simple information-based applications to complex games. 

The duties of an Android developer include: 

• Being involved in the entire life cycle of a particular application.
• Discussing the concept of an Android application with a team.
• Assessing the feasibility for building the application. 
• Building and installing the Android application.
• Working with the design and testing team to discuss any errors. 
• Troubleshooting and fixing any bugs that come up. 
• Evaluating the app’s workability and usefulness, using feedback from customers. 
• Updating applications. Depending on the job, their entire role may be focused on updating pre-existing applications.

Candidates for Android developing roles are often expected to have a degree. Relevant topics are computer science or software engineering. If their degree is not relevant, they could take a masters in the aforementioned subjects. 

Nonetheless, most of the information needed to become an Android developer is learned independently. Candidates who wish to pursue this line of work should make efforts to learn in their free time. Taking online courses can be a great help with this. 

Most jobs do require some experience, so it is recommended that prospective Android developers undertake some relevant roles. This could be unpaid work experience or internships in the field. University courses may include a year in industry, where candidates could find a suitable work placement. 

Some vacancies will, however, accept graduates with an impressive portfolio. Therefore it is imperative that candidates learn all of the relevant skills and create some pilot applications. 

Candidates can learn Android developer technical skills on any computer. They can test their creations on a computer using an emulator, but at some point, they will want an Android device to test on. The languages and programmes that Android developers should learn include: 

• Java – this is a relatively easy and popular coding language to learn and is the basic code for Android development. Android developers should have a solid knowledge of loops, lists, control structures and variables. 
• SQL – this is a language used in the application databases. It tells queries what information to obtain from the databases. 
• Android Studio – this is a free to download programme which developers use to write code. 
• Android SDK – this software provides candidates with libraries, sample codes and coding tools. 
• XML – this demonstrates how to use data feeds and UI layouts in Android applications. 

Candidates can learn this information through online courses and resources and books. 

As well as the necessary knowledge, Android developers should demonstrate various soft skills. They will need to be patient and exhibit perseverance, as developing apps can be an arduous process, and there will undoubtedly be issues along the way. Android developers should also be constantly willing to learn new things.

Collaboration skills are essential, as candidates will need to work with other developers, designers, and marketers. They will often need to explain their decisions and negotiate with other professionals in the process. This is not a customer-focused role, and candidates are often introverted, but some communication is necessary.

Android developers should showcase their skills online, via LinkedIn and other social media. Joining Android communities will also be useful to look for work and gain further expertise in the field.

The hours of an Android developer can be long, the vast majority of which are spent at a computer. It can be a high-pressure role, especially when there are deadlines, but the pay is generous.

Android developers are generally hired by media companies or large businesses who need high-functioning applications. With expertise, it is also feasible to work on a freelance basis.