How to use JDK 12 with Android project

Using JDK 12 with Android Projects

While Android development traditionally relies on older Java Development Kits (JDKs), you can leverage the features of JDK 12 by incorporating it into your project. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of how to achieve this.

Understanding JDK Compatibility

Android projects typically use Java 8, which is backward compatible with JDK 12. This means that Java code written for JDK 12 can be compiled and run on an Android device. However, keep in mind:

• Not all JDK 12 features are supported in Android.
• Using JDK 12 might require additional setup steps.

Setting Up JDK 12

1. Install JDK 12: Download and install JDK 12 from Oracle’s website (https://www.oracle.com/java/technologies/javase-jdk12-downloads.html). Ensure you have a valid license or obtain a free version.
2. Configure Environment Variables:
   • JAVA_HOME: Set this variable to the directory where JDK 12 is installed.
   • PATH: Add the bin directory of JDK 12 to your PATH environment variable.

Android Studio Configuration

Android Studio typically uses the default JDK bundled with it. To use JDK 12, follow these steps:

1. Open Android Studio: Launch Android Studio.
2. Navigate to Project Structure: Go to **File** > **Project Structure**.
3. Select SDK Location: In the left-hand menu, choose **SDK Location**.
4. Configure JDK Path:
   • Under **JDK location**, click the “**…**” button.
   • Select the directory where JDK 12 is installed.
5. Apply and OK: Click **Apply** and **OK** to save the changes.

Using JDK 12 Features

Once you have set up JDK 12, you can start using its features in your Android project. However, remember that some features may require additional setup or might not be supported by the Android platform.

Code Example: Using Switch Expressions

Let’s illustrate how to use JDK 12’s switch expressions. This feature simplifies the structure of switch statements, allowing you to write more concise code.

Before JDK 12:

public class Example {
  public static void main(String[] args) {
    int day = 2;
    String dayName;
    switch (day) {
      case 1:
        dayName = "Monday";
        break;
      case 2:
        dayName = "Tuesday";
        break;
      default:
        dayName = "Unknown";
    }
    System.out.println(dayName);
  }
}

Output:

Tuesday

With JDK 12:

public class Example {
  public static void main(String[] args) {
    int day = 2;
    String dayName = switch (day) {
      case 1 -> "Monday";
      case 2 -> "Tuesday";
      default -> "Unknown";
    };
    System.out.println(dayName);
  }
}

Output:

Tuesday

Comparison Table: JDK 12 Features & Android Support

Considerations

• Compatibility: Ensure that the JDK 12 features you use are compatible with the minimum API level of your Android project.
• Testing: Thoroughly test your application on different devices and Android versions after integrating JDK 12.

Conclusion

Using JDK 12 with Android projects provides access to modern Java language features. This enables you to write more efficient and expressive code while maintaining compatibility with Android development.