Trying become a developer? - General Questions and Answers

Ok I'm totally new to messing with phone and what not. Would like to be able to become involved in developing programs and custom ROMs but I'm not very computer friendly but I get better. My is what all do I need to do to learn how to do that.
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First of all good luck with your studies.
I personally don't involve myself with dev for Android but the more souls that dev the more different things we users get.
A good place to start ofcourse is http://developer.android.com
The KB on there is pretty nice and has a lot of beginning to understand parts.
As for other books.
I have the following myself
Hello, Android: Introducing Google’s Mobile Development Platform
Beginning Android 2
Android Application Development: Programming with the Google SDK
I have those 3 and although i don't do dev the information i found in them is enough for me to understand what i can do with my phone and android.
It probably won't get you to make a custom ROM right away but understanding is step 1 building is step 2
Anyways good luck to you.

Start with the android tutorials, and start off by trying to combine them all into one app. Before you know it you might have an idea and start working on a project of your own, that's the best form of motivation for learning!

Yes, me too must read manuals first. So start

petulikt said:
Yes, me too must read manuals first. So start
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What manuals do I did. Do i get general ones.
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Related

Seriously want to start Developing - Need some help.

It's not just another one of those 'LOLZ WANA DEVLOP PLZZ HELPPPZZ'.....
I'm very serious and need to know where to start off. I would maybe do it for a living when I'm older. It's something I've been wanting to do for a while. I used to mess around with some private servers coded in Java, but I didn't learn much.
I'm just wondering if there was a place where I could take classes online, or a good way to start off. I would be using my Evo for development aswell.
Any serious help would be appreciated.
nsteger123 said:
It's not just another one of those 'LOLZ WANA DEVLOP PLZZ HELPPPZZ'.....
I'm very serious and need to know where to start off. I would maybe do it for a living when I'm older. It's something I've been wanting to do for a while. I used to mess around with some private servers coded in Java, but I didn't learn much.
I'm just wondering if there was a place where I could take classes online, or a good way to start off. I would be using my Evo for development aswell.
Any serious help would be appreciated.
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Me to....
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The best place to learn and this may be a shock...for real. But i had begun to read an android development book and that didnt really do it for me but when i started to read Google Development pages it all made sense.
developer.android.com
Check it out.
1) read the entire dev guide
developer.android.com/guide/basics/what-is-android.html
2) install sdk and eclipse
3) build hello world and deploy to emulator, then to real device
You'll be on your way to devdom if you can make it through these 3 trivial steps
I bought three android books and they all seem to be very helpful in their own ways.
Hello, Android! 3rd edition - Great for beginners to the android platform
Professional Android 2 - Great and has a good amount of corners covered. From layouts to bluetooth and wifi. This one is by wrox and the code samples are available online without purchase verification.
Advanced Android - Good but not really worth is.
I've spend sometimes using eclipse but i can say it's quite buggy for now.
You may wanna stick to it but i suggest to test the last IntelliJ X Community
It's free and it get Android dev without plugins. I get this tips from the Twitter
of Romain Guy ...
For the dev, a little book from manning.com. They offers code is you register
you can get 50% of the price. Android in action.
Then for the advanved topics StackOverflow is now replacing the android
newbies developpers google group officially and there's a lot of advanced topics.
Give yourself some weeks to get some results, you've to learn the philosophy
of a new system.

Where to start in learning programming/android development?

Hey guys.
I'm really into Android and I love rooting and custom roms as much as the next guy. So much, in fact, that I'd like to start learning how it all works.
I'm not a noob to computing or android by any stretch of the imagination, but I AM a noob to programming and development.I'm very proficient with windows and can navigate my way around Ubuntu but when it comes to the terminal or command prompt, I'm lost. However, I'm usually able to follow instructions or type in basic ADB commands but most of the time I find myself wondering why these work the way they do and what they're actually accomplishing.
I have a good understanding of how the android operating system works but am clueless to what goes on under the hood. I know what a custom rom is and can flash it in recovery without problems but usually when I start throwing radios or kernels into the mix that's where things go wrong. These are the kinds of things I'd like to know how they work and what they do for Android, as well as how the file hierchy works, the android SDK, ROM building, and stuff like that.
So, I'd like to learn how to develop the things that people put up on this site. I have a very basic understanding of code and programming in general, so I pretty much need a gameplan on where to start in this endeavor. I'm guessing I need to learn a (or a few) programming languages, and I'm guessing I also need a basic understanding of the terminal in Windows or Linux. I have absolutely no idea where to start.
In the past, I've found video tutorials to be very helpful in learning software like Photoshop or After Effects. I'm more of a visual learner so I'm not sure how helpful a book or PDF would be to me. Lynda.com has been a very trusty sidekick and from what I've found they do have some basic training for Java and other popular languages, but their library for terminal/scripting languages or Android in general are both pretty scarce. If anyone could recommend a few resources on where I can get my foot in the door that would be greatly appreciated as hours of googling have left me ultimately fruitless.
All of the things I've listed above are just things I KNOW I'm going to need an understanding of to truly learn how android works. I realize that there are so many more things I'm going to need to grasp before I'm ready to start making ROMs or building apps. I'd like to know what all I need to learn and the best way to approach it and in what order makes the most sense. Please excuse the extensiveness of my post as well, I wanted to give a summary of all the things I know well and what I'm looking to learn. Any opinions or comments/suggestions are completely welcome, I'm humbly asking for your guys' help because I know you know what you're talking about.
Thanks a ton.
I'm pretty sure, there's a video tutorial on xda main site. Do a search, I'd link it but on phone
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gfunk0311 said:
I'm pretty sure, there's a video tutorial on xda main site. Do a search, I'd link it but on phone
Sent from my evo using xda premium
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Click to collapse
I'm having trouble finding any video guides other than small mod-type things. There's a bunch of links to forum posts but I'm not finding the one you're referring to.
If you get a chance I'd love to know the one you're talking about. Thanks!
here is nice tutorial
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1753131
renw0rp said:
here is nice tutorial
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1753131
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That's a good one for specifically learning game development, but before I get that into it I want to gain a really good understanding of how android works and what all I need to learn.
snoshreddax21 said:
That's a good one for specifically learning game development, but before I get that into it I want to gain a really good understanding of how android works and what all I need to learn.
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Click to collapse
havent really had time to watch all of these, but perhaps this is a good starting point for you. theres a series of videos called "How to build an Android App part 1..."
http://www.youtube.com/user/xdadevelopers/videos?view=0
---------- Post added at 09:35 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:07 AM ----------
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1661770
this is in the Android Software Development section of the forum. there may be a ton of useful threads but this is the first relevant one that came up
also, going start to the source is a good option
http://developer.android.com/training/index.html
Can anyone suggest a few things I need to become familiar with besides Java? And perhaps recommend a method of learning?
snoshreddax21 said:
Can anyone suggest a few things I need to become familiar with besides Java? And perhaps recommend a method of learning?
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Click to collapse
For learning Java, I would suggest "thinking in Java" by Bruce eckel. It is downloadable for free
Otherwise, getting a common Linux distro and learning your way around that, or osx if you use a Mac, will teach you a lot about the Unix file system and permissions and common commands. All of which are common with android
Best of luck
I've actually been asking the same question myself. I've learned C++ (A bit) took a class on it, did fairly well. But good to know someone else asked I had asked one of my buddies the same question and he had replied, telling me, I was asking too much of an ambiguous question. But either way, I'll start with the videos on this site. :laugh:
peg20 said:
For learning Java, I would suggest "thinking in Java" by Bruce eckel. It is downloadable for free
Otherwise, getting a common Linux distro and learning your way around that, or osx if you use a Mac, will teach you a lot about the Unix file system and permissions and common commands. All of which are common with android
Best of luck
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Click to collapse
I've had my share of experience with Ubuntu but when it comes to the Terminal I'm completely lost. Any suggestions on how to get started? I have no idea how it works or what commands do and that sort of stuff. I'd love to try it out but I just don't know where to begin.
snoshreddax21 said:
I've had my share of experience with Ubuntu but when it comes to the Terminal I'm completely lost. Any suggestions on how to get started? I have no idea how it works or what commands do and that sort of stuff. I'd love to try it out but I just don't know where to begin.
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Click to collapse
The best learning method is "trial and error", so if you are lost with the Terminal start doing a google search and you'll find many howtos.

Programming Point of View

Hey guys, so I really want to get into programming and get good enough for Android Development and such, but I feel like I just don't have the mindset for it. There's kids my age already making apps and stuff, and I'm kinda haulted, having no sense of how I should start. Could anybody please help? Thanks a lot.
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wheelsXwilly said:
I feel like I just don't have the mindset for it.
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Why do you feel like that? Have you tried any programming before? It can certainly feel daunting to get started, but I reckon it's a skill that pretty much anyone can pick up if they're willing to learn. Some resources you might want to check out:
CodeAcademy.com -- has a couple of nice tutorials to get you started that you can run straight from your web browser
Udacity CS101 -- free online "Introduction to Computer Science" course. Covers a bit of programming in Python as well as some computer science fundamentals
Books/online tutorials -- can be of varying quality and many assume some prior programming experience. Because you mentioned you want to develop for Android, you might want to look at "Java for Dummies" or similar.
Hope that helps!
Yeah I went through about 40+ python tutorials on thenewboston, and I took a break because of school, and I didn't contain all the things I learned. So I'm a little discouraged. I'll check your suggestions out, thanks!
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wheelsXwilly said:
I didn't contain all the things I learned. So I'm a little discouraged.
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That's normal -- if you don't keep practicing, you'll get rusty. I recently had to brush up on C++ after having not used it for over 6 months. You should pick it up more easily the second time, and you might be surprised at how much you actually remember.
Good luck!

I wanna get into android development.. where to start?

I found some books... basically learn Linux/android developing, i wanna get a good idea/knowledge... create ROMS, Kernals, just anything that has to do with android..
Where do I start?
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one thing at a time buddy. Start by learning some Java. From there you'll be able to move into app development.
You might be able to do some rom manipulation without being able to program, but knowing how apps work from app development would be helpful.
Ill leave the kernel stuff for someone else to answer.
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I agree - start with learning a programming language.
Many are pretty similar in concept/structure - so once you understand the basics, you'll be able to branch out as you will find you need to.
Start with java and learn the basics of app development. Then jump into some theming and modding. This will help you familiarize yourself with system files and such. Finally, the most difficult of all, coding and kernel work. This will require a bit of C, C+, python, and a couple other computer languages. You'll mainly be working with C tho. Start at the bottom and be patient with your learning! Good luck!
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Any good resources on the stuff you've mentioned?
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I learned Java using a book called Java by dissection.
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Me too
Me too i also wanted to learn how to dev some android apps or Rom.
Ceelos09 said:
Start with java and learn the basics of app development. Then jump into some theming and modding. This will help you familiarize yourself with system files and such. Finally, the most difficult of all, coding and kernel work. This will require a bit of C, C+, python, and a couple other computer languages. You'll mainly be working with C tho. Start at the bottom and be patient with your learning! Good luck!
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totally agreed. i want to get into developing, too, rooted my ROM firtst, getting into the Terminal of Linux/ubuntu, decompile, modify, compile random apps, Theming the system UI... build your way up and see what you can do. One thing i have to say: You will need A LOT of time. most of the things are trial and error, the best way to learn how things are working.
What kind of development do you want to do? Applications? If so, google 'java tutorials' and you should find good materials on Oracle's site and others.
zgx said:
What kind of development do you want to do? Applications? If so, google 'java tutorials' and you should find good materials on Oracle's site and others.
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Roms/kernals
"Vanilla android >jail broken iOS>90" TV's"
Would it be worth buying a raspberry pi and learning the python language.. to get started in learning?
"Vanilla android >jail broken iOS>90" TV's"
xvi. Jeweboo
Ceelos09 said:
Start with java and learn the basics of app development. Then jump into some theming and modding. This will help you familiarize yourself with system files and such. Finally, the most difficult of all, coding and kernel work. This will require a bit of C, C+, python, and a couple other computer languages. You'll mainly be working with C tho. Start at the bottom and be patient with your learning! Good luck!
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Yes, for the apps Java is fundamental, for kernel and other part of the OS i think it is required C.
Ceelos09 said:
Start with java and learn the basics of app development. Then jump into some theming and modding. This will help you familiarize yourself with system files and such. Finally, the most difficult of all, coding and kernel work. This will require a bit of C, C+, python, and a couple other computer languages. You'll mainly be working with C tho. Start at the bottom and be patient with your learning! Good luck!
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Thanks for guidence
A good resource to check out is WWW.programmersinstitute.org. There are step by step videos for setting up your computer to program and then projects to work through with the instructor. The last time I checked it was free!
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steekyjim said:
one thing at a time buddy. Start by learning some Java. From there you'll be able to move into app development.
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Absolutely this. Java's the best way to go. Go download NetBeans IDE (Integrated Development Environment) and look up some free online tutorials. That'll get you started.
If you're more inclined towards kernels / ROMs, better to start with C, and then learn JAVA. Kernel is mostly C and android framework is mostly JAVA & C++ (For ROM development, you can make do with framework C++ if you know C)
For C, read Kernighan & Ritchie, for JAVA, any basic Java tutorial should do. Most of all, start coding from your first day - without trying things, you'll never learn programming.
If you decide to go into application/game development, I would highly recommend to try libgdx. I have been using it for 2 years and I am very happy with it.
ivoidwarranty said:
If you're more inclined towards kernels / ROMs, better to start with C, and then learn JAVA. Kernel is mostly C and android framework is mostly JAVA & C++ (For ROM development, you can make do with framework C++ if you know C)
For C, read Kernighan & Ritchie, for JAVA, any basic Java tutorial should do. Most of all, start coding from your first day - without trying things, you'll never learn programming.
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Will do,
"Vanilla android >jail broken iOS>90" TV's"
To know java is the first

I don't know any code what so ever. What's a good book, website, source to begin lear

And what language should I try to familiarize myself with first? Where do I go from there?
I aspire to work on ROMs one day, and even develop apps.
To be honest, I've also got ****ty computers and are too slow to work with, does anyone recommend getting a new laptop?
I'm probably going to need to be using something along the Unix, so will it be advisable to get a Mac or just stick with Windows and install Ubuntu?
(Sorry for not knowing as much as everyone else.)
I would be grateful towards any replies!
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Hello @narsciso
Its great to see another individual taking an opportunity on learning more about Android development.
I would recommend you getting a new laptop or desktop as some developing programs are RAM hungry. Though they should still work.
Building ROMs from source - To be able to build ROMs from source you'll need to learn allot about Android, ive never attempted this so I can't help you here. But don't worry, there are plenty of guides here on xda that'll get you set up with a Linux distro and a workstation that will lead you to compile your first ROM from source. Just use the search function.
Modifying ROMs, ROMs can be modified using windows so you wouldn't need a Linux Distro to be able to achieve this. Again there are plenty of guides and useful resources that can get out started, just use the search function.
Building apps from source - Building apps isn't all that hard to be able to achieve this. You will need to set up a environment. You can do so by going to the android developer site and you can start by downloading their SDK Pack. This contains vital files that will get you started. Also includes Eclipse studio (Application Creator).
Another info on android app development is that its based on Java. So I suggest you learn Java coding as others won't be as helpful. But no need to stress over this, Java is straight forward and its easy to pick up.
Modifying apps, you can achieve this by using apk decompilers (this can be done on Linux and windows) you can decompile the app and make changes within the work folder.
You can use the source code of an app (contains functions and commands) to build an app on eclipse.
The apk itself just contains the layout and looks. The src contains vital info for the app to run right.
I would have provided links but I am using my device. If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask.
Thanks a lot Krishneel! (I actually had a buddy of that name in HS, he still needs to give my CD back lol!)
You have broken everything down fantastically. I'll get down to reading as much as I can about Java, all the while saving up for a new laptop. I'm real excited now. You've given me a lot of motivation and insight and I'm very thankful to you for that.
So should I go with a Mac or stick with Windows when looking for a new computer?
Thanks again!
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narsciso said:
Thanks a lot Krishneel! (I actually had a buddy of that name in HS, he still needs to give my CD back lol!)
You have broken everything down fantastically. I'll get down to reading as much as I can about Java, all the while saving up for a new laptop. I'm real excited now. You've given me a lot of motivation and insight and I'm very thankful to you for that.
So should I go with a Mac or stick with Windows when looking for a new computer?
Thanks again!
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Click to collapse
No worries mate, there's a fantastic place to get started in java coding its called "codeacademy".
Its all up to you on the operating system bit. Here's a bit of information.
If you're planning on building ROMs from source Mac will work as its based on Linux as I have been told.
If you're planning to work just on apps and further your work into ROM dev later on, you can use Windows.
If you want to build from source on Windows you can do so by using a virtual machine to run a Linux Distro.
Note: when compile ROMs you need a good PC and the compiling process requires lots of time. Which means you'll need patience but assuming that you're only going to work on app development for now. I suggest Windows.
But its up to you on what you feel is the best the looks, price, design or durability.
Sent from this toast making Nexus 5, you wish your Nexus could make toast don't you? (;
krishneelg3 said:
No worries mate
Sent from this toast making Nexus 5, you wish your Nexus could make toast don't you? (;
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Thanks for the source! I guess I'll be investing in a new Windows computer soon!
Again, I can't thank you enough. You may have changed my life around Krishneelg3. Thank you!
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narsciso said:
Thanks for the source! I guess I'll be investing in a new Windows computer soon!
Again, I can't thank you enough. You may have changed my life around Krishneelg3. Thank you!
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No worries, good luck and all the best with your upcoming project.
If you find it hard to work with just learning Java, you can also refer to tutorials on YouTube. There are so many. And they're really helpful.
Cheers.
Sent from this toast making Nexus 5, you wish your Nexus could make toast don't you? (;
TheArc said:
No worries, good luck and all the best with your upcoming project.
If you find it hard to work with just learning Java, you can also refer to tutorials on YouTube. There are so many. And they're really helpful.
Cheers.
Sent from this toast making Nexus 5, you wish your Nexus could make toast don't you? (;
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So I got a macbook pro as a gift from my girlfriend, and I have took it upon myself to register and start at codeacademy.com
What do you recommend I should focus on for the first 6 months? Should I hop from language to language to mess around with ONE certain thing?
It or ally depends on you, important one would be Java and c

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