A new cross-device software development kit (SDK) has been released by Google, and the company claims it will improve communication across various Android device types and Android apps. Google's present goal is to persuade developers to use the new SDK in their apps so that Android devices can communicate with one another, but the next step is to expand to non-Android phones, tablets, and other devices. For Android smartphones and tablets, the cross-device SDK for app developers is currently accessible along with a Developer Preview.
In a blog post, Google detailed how its new cross-device SDK will improve communication between apps running on various Android device types utilising Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and ultra-wideband. The SDK would enable apps to find nearby devices, establish secure connections, transmit and broaden the user experience of an application to other devices.
This would essentially allow users to begin a job on one device and complete it without interruption on another when implemented by app developers. similar to picking up where you left off when you were reading an ebook on a tablet. Because it allows one device to share an app's current state with the same app on another device, the new SDK would also lessen the need to keep an app running in the background.
Allowing numerous individuals in a group to order food by simply sharing the order with them on the same app is a further, more straightforward example. To avoid physically passing a phone to each person in the group, people present can simply place their order using a device (tablet, phone, etc.). Users may also be able to share specific map locations from their smartphones with a vehicle's navigation system using the new SDK, effectively enhancing the UI.
The cross-platform SDK was introduced at Google I/O 2022 during the Multi-device development session. Its goal is to enable developers spend less time worrying about device discovery, authentication, and connection protocols and more time improving app experiences. For Android smartphones and tablets, a Developer Preview of the cross-device SDK is available. Later, Google will include non-Android OSs (like iOS or iPadOS) and various sorts of Android devices (such smartwatches, TVs, etc.).
