Google has introduced a new cross-device software development kit (SDK), which it claims will allow Android apps to better communicate across different device types. While Google’s current goal is for developers to adopt the new SDK for cross-communication between Android devices in their apps, the next step is to expand to non-Android phones, tablets, and more. The cross-device SDK for app developers is currently available with a developer preview for Android phones and tablets.
inside Blog post Google explained that its new cross-device SDK will allow apps installed on a variety of Android devices to talk and communicate better using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and ultra-wideband. The SDK will allow apps to discover nearby devices, hand-shake with a secure connection, and transfer and enhance the application’s user experience to other devices.
When implemented by an app developer, it essentially allows a user to start a task on one device and continue seamlessly on another. Like continuing to read an ebook on your phone at the same page you stopped reading on your tablet. The new SDK will also reduce the need to keep an app running in the background as it allows one device to share the current state of an app with the same app on another device.
Another simple example is ordering food to multiple people in a group by sharing the order with them on the same app. So people in the group can order from their devices (tablets, phones, etc.) and don’t have to send phones to everyone. The new SDK can let users share specific map locations with the vehicle’s navigation system from their devices, essentially making the UI experience seamless.
The cross-platform SDK was announced at Google I/O 2022 Multi-device development sessions And its intent was to reduce the extra effort required by developers in terms of device discovery, authentication, and connection protocols, and instead help developers focus on creating better app experiences. A cross-device SDK for app developers is available with a developer preview for Android phones and tablets. Google will later add other types of Android devices (such as smartwatches, TVs, etc.) and non-Android OS (such as iOS or iPadOS).
