Delphi 10.3 Rio: Android Support Changes
Introduction
Delphi 10.3 Rio introduced significant changes to its Android support, particularly impacting the number of supported devices. This article dives into the specifics of these changes, highlighting the devices affected and providing insights into the underlying reasons.
Key Changes in Android Support
- Removed Support for Older Android Versions: Delphi 10.3 Rio dropped support for older Android versions, specifically Android 4.4 (KitKat) and below. This decision was driven by the need to align with industry trends and focus resources on supporting more recent and actively used versions.
- New Minimum SDK Version: The minimum Android SDK version required for Delphi 10.3 Rio projects is now API level 19 (Android 4.4 KitKat). This implies that any app compiled with Delphi 10.3 Rio will only run on devices running Android 4.4 (KitKat) or later.
- Updated Android SDK and NDK: The bundled Android SDK and NDK in Delphi 10.3 Rio were updated to reflect the latest versions available at the time of release. These updates offer improved performance, enhanced features, and access to newer APIs.
Impact on Developers
Developers using Delphi 10.3 Rio should be aware of these changes and take the following actions:
- Target Audience Analysis: Analyze your target audience and the devices they use. If a significant portion of your users are on devices running older Android versions, consider alternative development options or migrating them to newer devices.
- Code Compatibility Checks: Review your existing Android projects and ensure they are compatible with the minimum SDK version (API level 19) required by Delphi 10.3 Rio. You might need to adjust your code to account for differences in API availability or behavior.
- Leverage New Features: Explore the benefits of the updated Android SDK and NDK. Utilize the new APIs and features to enhance your app’s functionality and performance.
Device Compatibility Table
| Android Version | Supported in Delphi 10.3 Rio |
|---|---|
| Android 4.4 (KitKat) | Yes |
| Android 5.0 (Lollipop) | Yes |
| Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) | Yes |
| Android 7.0 (Nougat) | Yes |
| Android 8.0 (Oreo) | Yes |
| Android 9.0 (Pie) | Yes |
| Android 10 (Q) | Yes |
| Android 11 (R) | Yes |
Conclusion
While Delphi 10.3 Rio has reduced the number of supported Android devices, it aligns with the evolving landscape of the mobile operating system. Developers are encouraged to adapt their strategies and leverage the benefits of the updated platform. By focusing on compatibility and taking advantage of new features, Delphi developers can continue to build robust and performant Android applications.