Android Build System, Gradle & App Deployment Flashcards

What is the primary build tool used in Android development with Android Studio?

Answer: Gradle

Gradle is the official build system for Android, integrated into Android Studio and used for dependency management, compilation, and packaging.

In an Android Gradle project, what does `compileSdkVersion` specify?

Answer: The Android API level used to compile the app source code

`compileSdkVersion` defines the API level against which the app is compiled, giving access to the APIs available in that version without affecting runtime behavior.

Which file contains the module-level Gradle build configuration including dependencies and build types?

Answer: app/build.gradle

The `app/build.gradle` file contains the module-specific configuration including dependencies, build types, and product flavors.

What is the purpose of `versionCode` in an Android app?

Answer: It is an internal integer used by the Play Store to determine if an update is newer

`versionCode` is an integer that must increase with each release; the Play Store uses it to determine update ordering, while `versionName` is the human-readable version shown to users.

Which Gradle task produces a release-signed APK?

Answer: assembleRelease

The `assembleRelease` Gradle task compiles, packages, and signs the app with the release configuration, producing a release-ready APK.

What is a 'build variant' in Android development?

Answer: A combination of a build type and a product flavor

A build variant is the combination of a build type (e.g., debug, release) and a product flavor (e.g., free, paid), allowing different versions of the app to be built from the same source.

Where is the Gradle wrapper version for an Android project specified?

Answer: gradle/wrapper/gradle-wrapper.properties

The `gradle/wrapper/gradle-wrapper.properties` file specifies the Gradle distribution URL, ensuring all team members and CI systems use the same Gradle version.