Seven Steps to Effectively Install the Android Support Library & Gain Access To The Essential Features for Your Android Development Projects.
Android Support Library Explained
Android Support LibraryThis is a must have for developers planning to support backward compatibility across different Android versions This library provides more APIs that extends the behavior of existing framework classes, helps to create smooth and constant applications for android lower versions by providing major important components on newer versions as well.
Installation Steps
Open SDK Manager:
Open Android Studio and go to Tools >
Android > SDK Manager or Click the SDK Icon.
Select SDK Tools Tab:
Inside the SDK Manager window, click on the tab of ‘SDK Tools’.android support library (ad)
Expand Support Repository:
Find the Support Repository and expand it.
Install the Repository:
Click on Android Support Repository (Checkbox) and click OK. Click on Finish after the installation is finished.
Post-Installation Setup
Once you have added the support libraries, then go on adding your project files:
Update your build. dependencies for each of the support libraries you want to use in gradle For instance:
groovydependencies {
implementation ‘com. android. com.android.support:support-core-utils:28.0.0
}
Migrating to AndroidX
Now, with the introduction of AndroidX it is highly recommended to move from old support libraries to this newly and truly great package for continuing updates/features. To migrate:
Enable the Android Studio built-in migration tool from Refactor > Migrate to AndroidX.
Best Practices
You should always be targeting the latest release of a support library in new projects.
Check for updates in the SDK manager frequently so you dont lack of available functionality and security patches.
Use minimal libraries as possible to avoid bloated size of app and also faster the performance.
By complying with these recommendations, you can use Android Support Library in your projects more functional to increase targeted audience reach and improve performance of apps.
