Can I Develop Android App Using Eclipse?

Android, Android Apps

If you’re looking to develop an Android app, you may be wondering if it’s possible to use Eclipse as your integrated development environment (IDE). Eclipse is a popular IDE that many developers are familiar with, so it’s understandable why someone might want to use it for their Android app development. In this article, we’ll explore whether or not Eclipse is a viable option for developing Android apps.

What is Eclipse?

Eclipse is an open-source IDE that’s primarily used for Java development. It provides a wide range of tools and features that make development easier and more efficient. One of the reasons why Eclipse is popular among developers is its extensibility – there are many plugins available that can be used to add new functionality.

Android Development Tools (ADT) Plugin

To develop Android apps using Eclipse, you’ll need to install the Android Development Tools (ADT) plugin. This plugin provides all the necessary tools and libraries for developing Android apps within the Eclipse environment.

Once you’ve installed the ADT plugin, you’ll be able to create new Android projects, edit XML files, debug your code, and more – all within the Eclipse IDE.

Is Eclipse Still a Viable Option?

While Eclipse was once a popular choice for developing Android apps, it’s no longer recommended by Google. In fact, Google officially ended support for the ADT plugin in 2015. This means that while you can still use Eclipse for Android app development, it’s not recommended – especially if you’re just starting out.

Instead, Google recommends using their official IDE for Android app development – Android Studio. This IDE provides all the necessary tools and features for developing high-quality Android apps. It also includes advanced features like code analysis and refactoring tools that can help streamline your development process.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, while it is possible to develop Android apps using Eclipse, it’s no longer recommended. Google officially ended support for the ADT plugin in 2015, and now recommends using Android Studio instead. Android Studio provides all the necessary tools and features for developing high-quality Android apps, and is the best choice for both beginners and experienced developers alike.

If you’re already familiar with Eclipse and prefer its interface, you may still choose to use it for your Android app development – but keep in mind that you won’t be able to take advantage of any new features or updates released by Google. Ultimately, the choice is yours – but we recommend sticking with Android Studio for the best development experience.