Nokia also reaches HERE Tizen following confirmation for Android – Reuters

<- Multimedia home -> <- end multimedia ->

MADRID, 30 (Portaltic / EP)

The agreement between Nokia and Samsung to bring HERE to Galaxy devices Android is not the only collaboration between the two companies. Nokia has confirmed that Tizen devices from the South Korean company will also have access to HERE, and not just the S Gear.

Samsung is the leading manufacturer of the Android ecosystem and has a large number models and recognized success terminals. However, in recent months the company has demonstrated its intention to reduce its dependence on Google system. The fact that the company responsible for Android came into the hardware market with the Nexus equipment and control system development has meant that Samsung is looking for alternatives to Android.

Samsung measures seeking independence that have been happening. The South Korean firm has developed own services designed to replace Google platforms and has even created its own app store. The next step was to go for an alternative system as Tizen, which has started to be installed in several of its most modern equipment.

Samsung’s latest move in the search for independence has been agreed with Nokia HERE use on their devices. HERE is a mapping platform that competes directly with Google Maps. Maps have become one of the key tools of the mobile world and the arrival of Nokia HERE to Samsung Android devices the company makes its dependence on Google is less. The truth is that Samsung does not offer a service HERE own mapping and has been an alternative that the company has seen more interesting.

At the time of announcing the Galaxy with Android will be compatible with Nokia HERE, also confirmed that the Smart Clock Gear S would be too. It is a device with Tizen operating system to hit the market in October. Beyond that clock had not confirmed anything regarding the advent of HERE at other possible equipment Tizen.

Nokia has cleared doubts and announced that its mapping platform itself will be compatible with the rest Samsung Tizen devices to be throwing. Thus, it seems that Nokia will be HERE mapping system Tizen equipment. This is an important announcement, makes Tizen gain competitiveness against Android. The alternative platform by Samsung as well betting wins a tool that can be a reason for users to trust their possibilities.

HERE explained that Nokia will adapt to the interface S Samsung Gear Tizen and other devices. For now the device catalog with this system is very small, but given the need for independence from Google Samsung, you may soon have more references. Now it is confirmed that HERE is your mapping platform, the system gains consistency and improves its future prospects

Related Links.
Nokia (http://www.europapress.es/portaltic/software/noticia-nokia-anuncia-here-maps-android-exclusiva-samsung-galaxy-20140829164628.html)
Noticia about the arrival of Nokia Android HERE (http://360.here.com/2014/08/29/here-samsung-gear-tizen/)

How to update HTC Android 4.4.3 One M7 KitKat – tuexperto.com

If you have a HTC One M7 (which until now knew as HTC Original One ) you should know that you can now upgrade to Android 4.4.3 KitKat . The Taiwanese company just starting in Spain which happens to be one of the most anticipated updates lately. For weeks, have been the owners of the free HTC One those who have received the data packet in Europe . Well, now it’s the turn of those who are located in Spain, except those with a HTC One linked to any operator . In that case, most likely still have to wait a little longer. If in your case you can upgrade, you should know that the package Android 4.4.3 KitKat you receive has a maximum weight of 550 MB and also includes Sense 6 , the latest edition of the user interface developed by HTC . If you have questions about whether or not to upgrade your computer, you expressly recommend that you do as possible. In fact, Android 4.4.3 also gives users the proposed security solution for Android 4.4.4 KitKat , so this is the last update that users receive before Android L from autumn arrives.

But how I can perform the upgrade? Is it safe to do so connecting my HTC One to a computer ? Or is it better to do it via OTA ? Then we tell you in a few steps how to easily update your HTC One Android 4.4.3 KitKat .

Via 1 Update via HTC Sync Manager

First step. Download HTC Sync Manager.

1) This is certainly the traditional way to update any outfit, but it is also true that it is a little heavier by the steps you have to perform. Anyway, this is a recipe that has all the HTC support . First of all, yes, you need to download (if you have not already done on another occasion) the software HTC Sync Manager . It is a free program that we use for downloads and updates of this type, but also to organize the information we have stored in your phone, backup, etc.. Access the link we provide you to get the program.

2) Then inside the HTC official website , click on Free Download . You’ll have to accept the license agreements and finally select the Download .

3) The main file is downloaded to your computer. When you have it (probably will be stored in the Downloads folder of your browser or at the bottom of it if you use Chrome ) click on it. Remember that bears the name of Setup .

4) Follow the steps and instructions provided by the system to lead you to install the program. In minutes should end . It is possible that at the end of the installation you are asked if you want to locate or not a shortcut icon for the program on the desktop. If you’re going to use it often, you can answer yes, but it is a completely free choice.

Step. Connect your HTC One to your computer

1) To perform the update via this method, it will be necessary that you have the following ingredients:.’s HTC One (of course) a USB and computer . If you have already installed HTC Sync Manager , you just have to connect the phone to the computer via the cable you’ll find the computer case. If you do not, look for any other compatible. There is no problem.

2) Just connect the phone, the program HTC Sync Manager should run automatically. If not, do not worry. Just do double click on the icon software to force execution and wait until it detects the presence of HTC One .

Step. Start with the update .

1) We are in the final stages of the upgrade. If your HTC One is already connected within the program HTC Sync Manager click on the Settings button. You’ll find it in the upper right corner.

2) Then select the Check for updates . The software will search the corresponding data packet Android 4.4.3 KitKat .

3) Once localized, accept the download . Right now you only have to follow the instructions proposed by the system, which will connect to the servers HTC to download.

4) The update process will begin independently and can be extended for a few minutes. Bearing in mind that this is a heavy data package , is likely to be take 30 or 45 minutes . Anyway, do not disconnect the HTC One at any time from your computer. Be patient and wait, because you can not use the phone until you complete the upgrade.

5) When the update is complete, the system will tell you when you can disconnect the phone from computer . Remember that in the end, the One HTC will update . At the beginning, you should start enjoying all the benefits that entails Android 4.4.3 KitKat .

Way 2 Upgrade via OTA (Over The Air) without cables.

First step. One M7 HTC Prepares for the update .

1) Updates v ed OTA (Over The Air) or wireless are much more comfortable, since they do not require installation of any software or connect the phone to the computer. They are equally safe and also a lot faster. However, it should take into account some previous recommendations. The first thing you ask is that upload full battery of your HTC One M7 . Ideally, it is loaded to the max, but we 80% of its total capacity would be worth being in a . It is a process as routine to avoid us any unexpected power outage could cause fatal errors on the terminal.

2) Then you must connect your HTC One M7 to a wireless WiFi network , whether at work, at home or in a hotel room. We seek to avoid incurring a too heavy data download (do not forget that you are 550 MB ) to your contracted data connection and not suffer the effects of a cut connection, something more common when we were suddenly without coverage. For a WiFi network comes in paragraph Settings & gt; Wireless connections & gt; WiFi Settings & gt; Enable WiFi and select your preferred network.

3) Finally, I recommend making a backup all content and settings you have stored on your computer. Although not usually happen anything, any update process involves certain risks . Open the application Backup HT C and click on Enable automatic backup . You will be prompted to choose the storage system in the cloud that best suits your circumstances (you have Google Drive or Dropbox ) and login. If you also select the Automatic backup , your phone will be backing up new items each day.

Step. Look for the update to Android 4.4.3 for HTC One .

1) What I usually do most manufacturers is to send a notification message to its customers to warn them already An update . If you’ve already received, all you have to do is click on panel Notifications and accept the update. If this comes at a time when you can not carry it out, do not worry. You can always retrieve it by accessing the Updates software .

2) What if I have not received any notification ?, you ask. Really easy. You can actually check the availability of your data package independently, just by getting in paragraph Settings & gt; About & gt; Software Updates .

3) Once located, you just have to accept the download and wait . This process can go on for a few minutes, so be patient and do not interrupt at any time. If still does not have available the update , do not worry. This type of data packets usually arrive in stages, so you should have it in the coming days or weeks.

Step. Fire up the update on your HTC One .

1) After accepting the installation, click the Install button to start with the upgrade. All you have to do at this point is to follow the instructions provided by the system, but you have already indicated that now is a fairly autonomous process .

2) When you have begun, let the installation run its course. We remind you that this step can be extended for 30 or 45 minutes , so be patient and wait.

3) Right after the HTC One will reboot automatically (it is likely that you did not even ask permission). When turned on again, and once the update is complete, you can start enjoy all the benefits of Android 4.4.3 KitKat .

4) If you want, you can verify that indeed have the latest version of Android by accessing the Settings & gt; About & gt; Software Updates . The issue to be included is logically the Android 4.4.3 KitKat . Enjoy it

– <.! [endif] ->

Understanding the impact of ART, the new virtual machine Android – The Android Free

For some time we have been commenting on ART the new virtual machine using Android L ( above explain how to activate ART in KitKat). This time go into more detail on the impact of ART and considerations that must be both users and developers.

JIT vs. AOT

As we know, Android apps are distributed in the apk format. Apk contains a Java class compiled into a bytecode format called DEX. The DEX format is independent of processor architecture, so to be executed needs to be translated to native “machine code” for the processor of our device.

The fundamental difference between Dalvik and ART is when to make this translation or compilation. Dalvik uses what is called “just in time” compilation (just-in-time, or JIT), while pre-compile using ART (ahead-of-time, or AOT).

With the Dalvik JIT compiler, each we started an app, the virtual machine dynamically translates a part of DEX bytecode to machine code. As you continue running the app, more bytecode compiled and stored in cache memory. That is why it is said that the app is being compiled “just in time” as we use it. For ART, the apps are compiled from that are installed on the device, and since the machine ready to run code without compiling allowed greater installed.

Impact Network

In general, applications perform better with ART, as the processor does not have to devote resources to be compiled the app while it is used. This will also result in lower energy consumption.

Obviously, these improvements come at a cost. For one, the apps take longer to settle (so we said that is being compiled when installing the full app for our specific processor). But do not worry, do not think that an app will take 30 minutes to install, typically it will be a matter of seconds or tens of seconds at most. The other negative consequence is that the installed apps take up more storage space than before (about 20% more).

In short: better execution performance and efficiency at the cost of increased installation time and storage space. I think it’s a sacrifice well worth it.

Impact Developer

The vast majority of apps for Dalvik ART should function without problem. However, there are some cases where it is better to adjust your code to ensure that your app works well on ART.

A handy relatively common Android apps so far is that the code included explicit calls to garbage collector using System.gc (). Typically this is done to prevent occurrences of GC_FOR_ALLOC (when the system runs out of memory and call forced the garbage collector so at a time that may not be the ideal). In ART, due to improvements in the system of garbage collection, no longer need to be making explicit calls to System.gc ().

From the code of your app can detect if it is running on Dalvik or ART, checking the value of System. getProperty (“java.vm.version”) . If the value is 2.0.0 or higher, then the app is running on ART.

ART is stricter than in Dalvik verification code. The produced with the Android SDK code should have no problem, but it can be another tool to generate code that ART does not accept. For example, this could be the case with tools for code obfuscation. Third-party providers are adjusting their tools to ensure they are compatible with ART so that such recommendation is to upgrade your tools to the latest version.

A positive aspect is that it will be easier to track errors NullPointerException type because ART will provide information on what was the method that the code tried to access.

Conclusion

ART certainly best to bring the Android platform. For users, this will be transparent but is important to know what is happening “behind the scenes” . For developers, general promises ART make things easier and help developers make their apps have better performance.

For further reference, I invite you to visit the Developer Zone Intel, where you’ll find more technical information resources for the development of Android apps.

References:

5 Android apps to go through the World Basketball … – El Android Libre

is a great day for all basketball fans, and that starts the 2014 World Basketball . It is the 27th edition, where Spain plays home to try to prevent USA revalidate the title won four years ago in Turkey.

The tournament will run from August 30 to September 14, and here we 5 applications to follow all the news basketball from your Android device. Although it goes without saying that if you want to follow live, is the ideal place to buy some tickets for any of the parties occasion.

FIBA ​​Game Center

When you want to be informed, what better than official application of the FIBA ​​if we will not go to the stadium or to view it on TV. Here we can see all the news, official videos, live results, rankings, and crosses and schedules. Even we can follow the U-17 (Dubai) and the World Female (Turkey)

is presented in a simple and intuitive interface use, so that it becomes one of the candidates to be installed without a doubt.

Requires Android 2.2 and higher

version 2.1

Size: 13M

Basketball Live

This application is another application that allows us to avoid miss any detail of everything that happens in the world. Like all, we will offer real-time results, final results, standings, and more. But we also give estimates of potential winners and favorites. We see information on lesser-known players of the less strong teams, becoming all about basketball experts

Once you finish the World , we can also follow the Endesa League, Euroleague or NBA .

Requires Android 2.3 and higher

Version: 1.4

Size: 8.2m

Basketball World Cup 2014

This is another application that will allow us to see results, group classification of the World, as well as subsequent crosses. We can find all the information regarding the tournament, but a sin, colorful shriller inteface , which does not leave us indifferent.

Requires Android 2.3 and higher

Version: 1.0

Size: 2.5M

Spain World Basketball 2014

Another guide to more closely follow the World Cup, including information on equipment, group stage, finals and all that is of interest . However, contrary to the above, it is much simpler graphical issues, but it does not make it smart. Presents a interface worked very little from my point of view, but sometimes find information, is more than enough.

In addition, if we see the name of the package that the packaged application (containing the string ejerciciosmatematicas ), not end to inspire the seriousness that he must wait for an application

Requires Android 2.2 and higher

Version: 9.0

Size: 1.7M

Basketball World 2014

This app can check the schedule, standings, playoffs, as well as statistics, lineups and more. In this case, we see that the interface is pretty neat, and see the alignments in a very visual way, which makes it a plus. As we can see, the information among other applications and is very similar. It will be based a little more on the personal taste of each.

Requires Android 2.3 and higher

Version: 1.2.2

Size: 3.5M

Best Android games of the week: Dark: Second Shadow … – The Free Android

A few developers have submitted their sets this week. It is normal, was August and not all have been focused on their projects. Yet we do have several interesting titles with us. Here we go with our weekly compilation of the best Android games. A touch vitiate the weekend arrives.

During these days we have highlighted Appointment with FEAR, an adventure game based on a classic comic. The style of most games still that dark touch that seems to please both

Dark. Second Shadow

We are facing the second part of Dark , a game whose aesthetic with black backgrounds builds an environment that is difficult to escape. The light is generated by the natural character and for 20 levels must solve puzzles and challenges. Dark is the typical indie platform game whose design is its main virtue.

The controls are optimized for touch controls and soundtrack is not far behind. Have a promotional price of € 0.91 and if you want to hang out with a gloomy feeling, this is your game.

Requires Android 2.3 and higher

Version: 1.2

Size: 27M

ALONE ..

Another title of an independent developer and top with dark color. But the gameplay is very different. It is ALONE , which will control a ship and have to avoid hitting the walls and obstacles. The game is giddy and the sensation of speed is present at all times. It costs € 1.99 but no order in the game.

In the game we will have three levels of difficulty. The creators, Rob Allison and Simon Renshaw Laser Dog have taken 8 months to launch it but it is very successful. Again the soundtrack is great. Here you have a video of the gameplay made in the iOS version.

Requires Android 2.3.3 and above

Version : 1.0.4

Size: 33M

Strike Wing: Raptor Rising

A new set of space simulation comes to Android. It is Strike Wing, that combines beautiful graphics made very pretty old-school style and a touch control system that allow us to control the ships quite accurately. Each aircraft is different and has its virtues and defects, about which we will use to unlock new levels. The missions will adapt to our level.

The title is free, but do not be fooled. And that is precisely big mistake , since in the game to unlock the full pack we have an in-app purchase of 3.03 € . What may be a small vase of cold water.

Requires Android 4.0 and higher

Version: Varies with device

Size: Varies with device

The Nexus X will be released with Android L and its cost will be around … – elEconomista.es

Europa Press

29.08.2014 – 17:04

Note to users: – ( 0 votes)

• The manufacturer responsible for designing the new Google smartphone Motorola is

elEconomista.es on Twitter

The website of Fnac, the French retailer of books and electronics, mistakenly leaked the name, features, price, and the manufacturer of the new ‘smartphone’ Nexus, it will not be 6, but the Nexus.

According Fnac page which has echoed the web TK Tech News , the manufacturer responsible for designing the new smartphone from Motorola and Google is known to be two versions, a 64 GB and a 32 GB.

As for the technical specifications in the pictures you can see it will have a 5.2-inch screen and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 integrated processor 2.7 GHz quad-core power. It is also appreciated that the rear camera will feature a 13.1 MP sensor.

Android System L

Perhaps one of the most interesting things about this leak is mistakenly confirming that Nexus X will be the first device to use Android as an operating system L, that website is listed with Fnac may be its final name. Lemon Meringue Android

As for rates two versions, the 32GB Nexus X will cost 419.99 euros, while the 64GB will rise to 449.99 euros.

The release date has been one of the few data that did not appear in the picture, although it is expected to arrive in the month of October as most of the predecessors of the Nexus series.

ADVERTISING

How to update Sony Xperia Android 4.4 E1 to KitKat – tuexperto.com

The most leading mobile phones Sony Mobile and are being updated with new versions of Android . A few days ago, we told you how to update your Sony Xperia Android 4.4.2 M2 KitKat , the last data packet that has been made available to the users of this mid-range phone. But this is not the only team that deserves to be updated in the catalog of the Japanese firm. We refer to the Sony Xperia E1 , a device that can from this moment and run through Android 4.4.2 KitKat . Users who decide to launch that update will have the opportunity to enjoy a superior performance , but also a wide assortment of features and functions such as the ability to synchronize accessories New Bluetooth profiles or print from the device without connecting to the computer with a cable.

If you have a Sony Xperia E1 in your pocket, we suggest starting the data packet as soon as possible. If you do not know where to start, then we provide the specific instructions , step by step, to install Android 4.4.2 KitKat on the terminal.

Via 1 Update via OTA (without cables).

Step 1 Prepare the Sony Xperia E1 to update .

1) Before starting the update, it will be necessary you prepare your team for an update via OTA (Over The Air) , or what is the same, without wires. It is, as you know, in a very convenient formula to update any outfit. The first thing you have to do is connect your Sony Xperia E1 WiFi Wireless Network I can offer an added stability. In fact, it is quite possible that the system asks you to make a connection of this type to not spend data quota you have contracted with your carrier (data packets usually weigh enough) and avoid failure during the download process.

2) On the other hand, will need to take fully charged battery Sony Xperia E1 . It is best to be at its maximum, but the truth is that we can settle for a 80% capacity .

3) Finally, We must remember that any update process may result in fatal errors for your phone. And although it was not as normal as before upgrading your computer we recommend making a backup of those files and settings that are important to you. If you want it, you can download the software PC Companion and follow the instructions that the system provides. You will see that is ready in minutes.

Step 2: Look for the update to Android 4.4.2 KitKat.

1) The update that Sony Mobile has prepared for the Sony Xperia E1 has already landed in some markets, but as you know, this process is usually carried out progressively. This means that does not have to be alarmed if you have not yet received the data packet. Most often you would get a notice up telling availability. If so, accept the download .

2) And what happens if you still have not received? Really easy. Have the option to see for yourself, just access the section Settings & gt; About phone & gt; Software Update & gt; System Update .

3) By clicking on this space, a Sony Xperia E1 look for any updates that may be available and you will report on a day if you are or not. If you are not ready, do not worry: should reach you in a few days . If you have already found, congratulations! You can start with the update immediately.

Step 3: Fire up the update.

1) We’re nearing the end. Accepts download data packet . The phone will connect directly to servers Sony Mobile for the software . Do not interrupt at any time the smooth running of the process.

2) If you’re too busy to perform the update , we will recommend you to do later. Note that throughout the time that the entire installation You can not use the phone , so make sure you start the upgrade at a time which you have to not receive or make calls. It is likely that the process is lengthened between 30 and 45 minutes , so be patient and follow blindly the instructions provided by the system.

3) When the installation is finished, your Sony Xperia E1 will restart automatically. When turned on again, you should login to the Settings & gt; About phone & gt; Software Update & gt; System Update to see that, indeed, your Sony Xperia E1 and runs through Android 4.4.2 KitKat .

Via 2 Update via PC Companion (with cables).

Step 1: Install PC Companion on your computer .

1) If you want to quickly update your Sony Xperia E1 must do it via OTA . However, if you wish, Sony also gives users the ability to implement it through the software PC Companion , a program that is available for PC as well as for Mac . To start downloading, so you only need to access on each of these links.

2) Once started the process (remember that both applications have a weight of 10 and 27 MB ) have to wait a few minutes until it finishes downloading . The package is stored in the folder you’ve designed for this purpose.

3) Retrieves the file you downloaded and click a few times to run . Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to install it on your computer. This operation should not extended beyond a few minutes . When finished, the system will ask if you want to install a shortcut icon on the desktop for faster access to PC Companion . If you think you’ll frequently use this tool, maybe this can be a good decision.

Step 2: Connect the Sony Xperia E1 equipment .

1) With the software installed on your computer, and can to start the update process . However, as you have indicated in the instructions to update via OTA, it would be interesting did a backup of all those files and settings that are important to you. It will take only a few minutes and can do so from the same program.

2) So much for the backup to start the update , you will need to connect the Sony Xperia E1 to computer . Use the USB cable that comes in the kit box. If you do not find it, do not worry: any compatible cable will serve you

3) The smaller end of the cable must be connected to the phone . the widest, the computer.

4) Once connected, the computer automatically detect the presence of Sony Xperia E1 and if the software Sony Companion is not open, do it immediately. If not, click the icon to open the program and force synchronization.

Step 3 Upgrade the device to Android 4.4.2 KitKat .

1) And it has already reached the moment of truth. You can now update your Sony Xperia E1 Android 4.4.2 KitKat . With PC Companion open, click on the Update Phone / tablet you’ll find at the top of the screen.

2) Then click on the Next button. The system searches for the data packet. When you found it, choose it from Next and Finish .

3) The update will start in a few seconds . We recommend you follow blindly the instructions provided with the system and not at any time disconnect the phone from the computer. Note that the update can last between 30 and 45 minutes or even more (this is a major data package), so be patient and take it easy. Remember that can not use the phone during this period. Choose a quiet time when you do not have plans to make or receive calls.

4) When the process is complete, the Sony Xperia reboots E1 automatically. From that moment you’ll be able to start enjoying all the benefits (and there are many) that brings Android 4.4.2 KitKat

. <- [If IE 6]> <[endif] ->

Nokia announces HERE Maps for Android, exclusive to Samsung – The Free Android

Nokia has unveiled its latest move. This is the Nokia maps HERE , which enjoy a great reputation. Samsung the company will receive the benefit of power exclusive access to these maps on Android. A movement without a doubt to get away from dependence on Google Maps.

We saw yesterday clues about this partnership in presenting the Samsung Gear S, which would provide directions Here, he now reveals that the pact covers all Galaxy smartphones, like the Galaxy S5. In fact surely see in the presentation of Note 4 some detail. For now though, the Nokia Maps are HERE beta.

One of the most important features is the possibility of Maps Offline. Google Maps allows downloading certain areas, but we have Here entire countries (up to 200). One difference for road makes a big difference.

UK GPS terminals, we have a free full navigation without internet, and this is what it will offer Samsung thanks to Nokia. Some maps in the same way that the GMaps provides information on public transport, walk or drive, tolls … and share our location via Glympse.

With this move by Samsung ensures n sima time to have a powerful service in one of the strongest fields of Google. Gradually the war to separate from Android is advancing. ¿Gone are the days seemed to have reconciled?

Via CNET
more Nokia

Tips to reduce the size of your Android application – The Free Android

Each day, the applications that we tend to occupy more and more space. When in early versions of Android apps we were about 2 MB, now is very normal to see these applications have come to occupy 10 to 20 MB.

But why now occupy more

This has led us to ask the question of where the reasons that now occupy more and more applications are, and consequently their APKs. The answer is not due to a single reason, but a set of arguments that have been affected by Android:

• multiplication of categories dpi now have a lot more variety of screens, for which we must cover their resources. Specifically we have: [l | m | tv | h | x | xx | xxx | dpi]
• own evolution of Android , their tools development and the libraries available in the ecosystem
• user expectations based on the high quality of the new graphical interfaces
• …

It is true that not all cases can avoid that growth, but we can try to control as much as possible. So there comes a time that a light application on Google Play can be an advantage over the rest. Why? First, because the code can be simpler and easier to maintain , which may mean it is better developed. Second, because developers continue fighting not reach the 50MB limit Google Play , thus avoiding having to download additional extensions. And finally, for the limitations that are: bandwidth, space …

The APK file format

The first thing to know how we can reduce the file is to understand its structure. Basically it is a file that contains multiple files in a compressed form. As such, we could decompress with the simple command unzip

Most directories that we can see and familiar to us as developers. resources see the Manifest, bookstores … And in classes.dex the compiled version of our Java code

Now let’s look at some techniques that we can use to reduce as far as possible the size of this file, but we must mention that it is important to remember that it is a compressed file has two sizes: the compressed and decompressed. But in this case, we focus on the compressed size, always still remember that the smaller the APK, the lower the uncompressed version.

Reducing the size of the APK

For starters there’s bad news: every application is different, so there is no absolute standard to lighten our APK. But the good thing is we have 3 important points on which we can work easily components:

• Java source code
• Resources / Assets
• Native Code

Cleaning the programming

The first step is to know the code like the back of our hand. This will lead us to get rid of all the unused code and libraries that already have stopped using … In this way, as we code only the essentials. We must avoid ending up with what is called dead code , which is the obsolete code that no longer use and have forgotten to remove. Luckily, we have some tools that can help us …

Run ProGuard

This tool allows us to obfuscate, optimize and reduce the code at compile time. One of the functions performed is precisely identify the code fragments that do not travel through the tree makes the code so that all code not reached (or unnecessary) will be extracted from the APK are used. Also, we added security features, as it will rename fields, classes and interfaces, forms the code is lightweight and more unreadable against reverse engineering.

“With great power colleva great responsibility”. And is that Proguard, if we do not set well to show you where you can not act, you can break some applications due to reflection.

Use Lint extensively

Proguard serves to the Java code, but if we want to improve the resources, we use Lint to detect all unused resources, by calling ./ gradlew lint . This will generate an exhaustive list of resources and can see those who are not in use. But keep in mind that working with the resources under the res folder which is ignoring the assets folder. For the files in this folder, we do it manually.

Rationing resources well

It is true that Android has fragmentation worthy of mention. But it is also true that Android has been designed to support devices regardless of their configuration (screen density, shape, size …) From Android 4.4, including new densities as tvdpi included. But this does not mean that our app should support them all. We must be able to think about what devices will use our app, or even think about group those densities, for example, where we have few users.

There are people who only support eg IPAP, xhdpi and xxhdpi, Android then automatically calculates the missing resources climbing the resource as necessary. Why these densities? In many cases, it covers more than 80% of users. Why not include xxxhdpi ? Right now it’s just a test for the future.

Minimize resource settings

Many times, we include libraries as Seller Support, or Google Play Services, or Facebook SDK … All resources that come with them are not useful for our application. So for this we use the plugin Android Gradle Plugin 0.7 , which we pass information about configuring our app so that it prevents resources that do not match our app included. This will also save space.

Compress Pictures

AAPT comes with a compression algorithm for lossless image. This allows us to reduce the size of the resource itself will use, but should not prevent also use other tools, such as pngquant, ImageAlpha or ImageOptim. and all depend on what best fits our needs.

But it only happens with our generic images, but Android specific images can also be optimized. We talked about the 9-patches . These images are the images that will stretch without deforming. Although no specific tools, yes we can minimize stretch zones to a minimum.

Limit the number of architectures

Although we program our applications in Java, is in some cases may need some native code (NDK). To do this, we must also consider reducing the native code. Normally it is sufficient to architectures and x86 armeabi .

Reuse where possible

Reuse is one of the main tools to optimize. To do this, we can for example change the color of a asset, and even rotate such an image, with a bit of code in XML. Here, we could forget ic_arrow_collapse, through the code we can see below. And this brings us more space savings.

Rendering with code when you can

Images are one of the factors that affect the size of our application, and we must think about reducing them to the fullest. To do this, we can come to ask render such animations, avoiding having to mount an animation with lots of images, and in so doing by code.

If in case we have just seen, we did every 16ms, we would have a library twice the size … Is it really viable? To do this, we can consider doing the animation by code, although we take time to program, but allow us to save space while maintaining a sufficiently smooth animation at 60fps for example. However, we hope that Google is working on a rendering system more optimized animations.

To go further?

All this allows us to optimize the application and libraries from the developer’s point of view. But the distribution chain affects you? We might be thinking something like the app only includes libraries that are really needed in the device that the app is installed. Could even imagine that only pack the device configuration where installed. But this would lead us to break one of the most important features of Android. How Android fits configuration changes dynamically

This leads us to think packaging by APK of lservidor is very powerful but also very risky because each user will have a different package shipped to Play Store, and it may even cause no guarantee that the app works perfectly.

Are you influencing review the sizes of the applications that you install will

Via Cyril Mottier

HTC M7 One updated to Android 4.4.3 KitKat in Spain – El Android Libre

Finally. Original HTC users receive their ration One KitKat. For weeks we heard as free One of Europe began to receive Android 4.4.3 OTA. These days it does finally Spain and its operation is impeccable.

The update weighs 550MB and incorporates Sense 6 as well as the security solution of 4.4.4, so in principle be the last update before Android L, . version that would have ensured that the HTC One

All those holders M7 One can go to Settings & gt; System Update to see this update. We recommend doing low if not lag WiFi without data.

The speed that provides KitKat again a touch of fresh air one of the Android we remember most fondly. Do you arrived and

Thank F.Peris