what is Difference Between AndroidX and Android Support Libraries?
Becoming a pro at mobile app quality assurance (QA) is super important for any app to do well. QA means making sure the app does what it’s supposed to. Here’s why nailing mobile app QA is a big deal:
Old Libraries vs. New Libraries:
Old Way (Android Support Libraries):
- Imagine these libraries were like a group of friends hanging out under the "android.support" banner.
New Way (AndroidX):
- Now, they've got a new hangout spot called "androidx." So, if you used to find your buddy at "android.support.v4.app.Fragment," now, you'll spot them at "androidx.fragment.app.Fragment."
Keeping Things Clear:
Old Way:
- The old gang (support libraries) had a bit of a naming confusion party.
New Way:
- The new crew (AndroidX) organized themselves better, making it clearer to find who's who.
Updates and New Features:
Old Way:
- The old gang only provided updates until a certain point in time.
New Way:
- The new crew not only keeps things going but also adds some cool new stuff beyond what the old gang had.
How They Release Stuff:
Old Way:
- The old gang had this weird system where sometimes the versions didn't quite match up.
New Way:
- The new crew fixed that and now releases things more smoothly. Each library can update on its own, and they all stay in sync with version numbers.
The Jetpack Connection:
Old Way:
- The old gang didn't really have a special name.
New Way:
- The new crew is part of something bigger called Android Jetpack, which is like a toolbox helping developers do their job better.
Cleaning Up Names:
Old Way:
- Some names in the old gang were a bit tricky.
New Way:
- The new crew cleaned up their act, making names simpler and easier to understand.
Identifying the Right Stuff:
Old Way:
- Finding what you needed in the old gang's stuff could be a bit all over the place.
New Way:
- The new crew made it simpler to figure out which library you need.
Switching Teams:
Old Way:
- If you've been with the old gang, it might be time to think about moving to the new crew.
New Way:
- The new crew has more cool things, so if you're starting fresh or updating, go with AndroidX for a smoother experience.
In a nutshell, AndroidX is like the upgraded version of the old support libraries. If you’re starting fresh or updating, go for AndroidX. If you’re still with the old gang, think about making the switch for the latest and greatest features!