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Question

Test platform for Android programming?

Dec 5, 2012 11:39PM PST

My high school aged son is doing some android app programming. He has an early version android phone (1.?) to test his programs, which doesn't seem to be working very well. I'm getting him a Nook Tablet (refurb) as a gift for testing but was also considering a cheap (used) phone as well. I can get an inexpensive Android 2.2 phone but I'm not sure if this is adequate. Any advice. Is it a good idea to have both platforms to test? The kid is really enjoying the process. I sure would like to encourage him... in a thrifty manner!

I appreciate any advice.

Discussion is locked

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Answer
I'm on a team writing apps.
Dec 6, 2012 4:27AM PST

I'd skip the Nook since it's not Android and even with the Root Nook, it's not the real deal. (Yes, folk, it's not, I own it, done it!)

My advice is to get the Nexus 7 which gets you the full real deal with all the right stuff. And if it's budget, just get a 99 buck Android from newegg or geeks.com.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100013681+4027&QksAutoSuggestion=&ShowDeactivatedMark=False&Configurator=&IsNodeId=1&Subcategory=2557&description=&hisInDesc=&Ntk=&CFG=&SpeTabStoreType=&AdvancedSearch=1&srchInDesc=

I see over 30 there.
Bob

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Answer
You might also
Dec 6, 2012 6:23AM PST
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Thanks for your reply
Dec 6, 2012 11:14AM PST

Yes, he uses the emulator to test, but he also likes to use a device. I'm guessing each newer version brings added functionality but may represent narrower audiences with each newer version. Just wondering if the Android 2.2 is an okay version to use as a test platform?

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I'm going with no.
Dec 6, 2012 12:06PM PST

To avoid learning what is passing into history, get any current 4.x device. There are many new things there and users of apps will be demanding the new stuff.

It's 99 bucks for many units (see my link?)
Bob

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Thanks for the response
Dec 6, 2012 10:22PM PST

I appreciate the feedback.