Home Google’s New App Shows Off Multi-Screen App Development

Google’s New App Shows Off Multi-Screen App Development

Google released a sample app to introduce Android developers to programming for multi-device applications. Called Universal Music Player, the reference app is bare bones and not consumer-ready, but functional on all Android devices.

Between desktops, tablets, smartphones and wearables, the number of devices we have at our fingertips keeps growing. While exciting for consumers, it creates a new problem for developers scrambling to make their work available on every screen.

See also: 10 Developer Tips To Build A Responsive Website [Infographic]

On the Web, developers can use responsive design to make a website adapt or “respond” to its context, adjusting size and layout to accommodate the device accessing it—whether a desktop, tablet or phone. With Universal Music Player, Google wants to show how responsive design can work for apps. Ideally, developers will only have to write their app once to suit all Android displays. 

Of course, the notion isn’t unique to Google or Android. This month, Microsoft also revealed plans for its universal app platform for Windows, which will allow developers to create just one app that works on every device that can run Windows 10, from desktop to Xbox One. Both Microsoft and Google’s offerings are in their earliest stage, while Apple has long offered tools such as Auto Layout, so iOS developers can make apps that automatically adjust to varying screen sizes. 

See also: Why Microsoft’s Universal Windows App Store Is Huge For Developers—And Consumers

Despite the liberal use of the word “universal,” users still stick to the same territories as before—Android, Windows and iOS. The label only refers to the screens within each platform. 

The real winners of the day are the developers, who will only have to program one app for each platform, regardless of how many types of devices they churn out. That’s in theory, of course—Android developers commenting on the news observe that the test app works only with Android 5.0 Lollipop, and not all Android devices run that. 

So much for “universal.” 


Developers can download Android’s Universal Music Player on GitHub and begin experimenting with it today. 

Images via Android Developers Blog

About ReadWrite’s Editorial Process

The ReadWrite Editorial policy involves closely monitoring the tech industry for major developments, new product launches, AI breakthroughs, video game releases and other newsworthy events. Editors assign relevant stories to staff writers or freelance contributors with expertise in each particular topic area. Before publication, articles go through a rigorous round of editing for accuracy, clarity, and to ensure adherence to ReadWrite's style guidelines.

Get the biggest tech headlines of the day delivered to your inbox

    By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe anytime.

    Tech News

    Explore the latest in tech with our Tech News. We cut through the noise for concise, relevant updates, keeping you informed about the rapidly evolving tech landscape with curated content that separates signal from noise.

    In-Depth Tech Stories

    Explore tech impact in In-Depth Stories. Narrative data journalism offers comprehensive analyses, revealing stories behind data. Understand industry trends for a deeper perspective on tech's intricate relationships with society.

    Expert Reviews

    Empower decisions with Expert Reviews, merging industry expertise and insightful analysis. Delve into tech intricacies, get the best deals, and stay ahead with our trustworthy guide to navigating the ever-changing tech market.