Debugging an app on Android can be a daunting task, but it is crucial for developers to identify and fix issues before launching their app. In this tutorial, we’ll cover the step-by-step process of debugging an app on Android.
Step 1: Enable USB Debugging
Before we begin debugging, we need to enable USB debugging on our Android device. To do this, go to your device’s Settings > About Phone > Software Information > Build Number.
Tap on Build Number seven times until you see a message that says “You are now a developer!” Then, go back to Settings > Developer Options and turn on USB Debugging.
Note: If you don’t see Developer Options in your settings, go to About Phone and tap on the Build Number seven times.
Step 2: Connect Your Device
Connect your Android device to your computer using a USB cable. Make sure that your device is recognized by your computer by checking the notification bar on your phone or by going to Settings > Connected Devices.
Step 3: Launch Android Studio
Launch Android Studio and open the project you want to debug from the Welcome Screen or File > Open.
Step 4: Select Your Device
In Android Studio, click on the Run button located in the toolbar at the top of the screen. This will open a dialog box where you can select your device. If you don’t see your device listed, make sure that it is connected properly and that USB Debugging is enabled.
Debugging with Logcat
Logcat is a tool in Android Studio that allows developers to view system messages and debug output from their app. Here’s how you can use Logcat for debugging:
Step 1: Open Logcat
In Android Studio, click on View > Tool Windows > Logcat or press Alt + 6 on Windows or Command + 6 on Mac.
Step 2: Filter Logcat
Filter Logcat by clicking on the dropdown menu that says “Show only selected application” and selecting your app from the list.
Step 3: Debug Your App
Run your app on your device by clicking on the Run button in Android Studio. Any debug output will be displayed in Logcat.
Debugging with Breakpoints
Breakpoints are a useful tool for debugging code in Android Studio. Here’s how you can use breakpoints for debugging:
Step 1: Set a Breakpoint
Open the file where you want to set a breakpoint and click on the line number where you want to set it. A red dot will appear, indicating that a breakpoint has been set.
Step 2: Debug Your App
Run your app on your device by clicking on the Run button in Android Studio. When your app reaches the breakpoint, it will pause and allow you to inspect variables and step through code.
Conclusion
Debugging an app on Android can be challenging, but it is essential for ensuring that your app works as intended. With the help of tools like Logcat and breakpoints, developers can identify and fix issues before launching their app.
Remember to enable USB Debugging, connect your device, launch Android Studio, select your device, and debug with either Logcat or breakpoints. Happy debugging!