249 - Java and the JDK: Powering the Android Landscape with Michael Bailey

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Jul 10, 2023

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Michael Bailey

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ANECDOTE

Dependency Upgrades Ate My Weekend

Koshik spent hours updating dependencies and chasing compilation issues when modernizing his open-source apps.
He wished for a clearer understanding of each build setting rather than relying on Stack Overflow fixes.

INSIGHT

JDK vs JRE: Roles Explained

The JDK bundles developer tools like the compiler while the JRE contains only the runtime and standard libraries.
Android developers need the JDK because builds and tools invoke compilers and packaging utilities.

ADVICE

Use Android Studio's Bundled JDK Or Configure Your Own

Android Studio ships with its own bundled JDK runtime (a JDK 17 in recent versions) so you don't have to preinstall Java.
Consider installing and configuring your own JDK when Gradle or build plugins require a specific version.

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In this episode of our podcast, we explore the diverse landscape of Java versions within the Android ecosystem. Our guest is Michael Bailey, a seasoned Java expert who has been a frequent presence on our show since the early days of our podcast. We kick off with a solid foundation, discussing the differences between JDK and JRE, as well as the distinctions between the available Java JDKs. We also guide listeners through Android Studio settings, exploring how to select a suitable JDK, its utilization, and how it relates to JAVA_VERSION on one's home path/terminal.

As we dig deeper, we start to unpack some of the crucial Android app settings. From compileOptions to sourceCompatibility/targetCompatibility, we shed light on why these versions are important. We also demystify the compileSdk vs minSdk vs targetSdk, and how they interconnect. Drawing from Kaushiks's recent experience in building a new app, we provide real-life examples that can better clarify these topics for our listeners.

We conclude the episode by providing some valuable resources for further understanding and exploration. This episode is designed to be a comprehensive guide to understanding and navigating the intricacies of Java versions in Android development.

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