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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Android and Java?

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The main difference between Android and Java lies in their purpose and application. Java is a general-purpose programming language, while Android is a mobile operating system platform that relies heavily on Java. Here are some key differences between Java and Android:

  1. API and Virtual Machine: While most Android applications are written in Java-like language, there are differences between the Java API and the Android API. Android does not run Java bytecode by a traditional Java virtual machine (JVM), but instead by a Dalvik virtual machine in older versions of Android, and an Android Runtime (ART) in newer versions.
  2. Android SDK: Android has its own Software Development Kit (SDK) that includes specific Java classes and methods for dealing with click events and user interfaces. Although Java and Android Java share the same syntax, the SDK is different from the regular Java Development Kit (JDK).
  3. Life Cycle Methods: Unlike Java, Android applications do not have a main function. They have onCreate, onResume, onPause, and onDestroy functions that should be overridden by developers.
  4. Libraries and Functionality: Some Java libraries are not supported in Android, but many have better replacements or alternative libraries available in the Android SDK. For example, Java libraries like java.awt and java.swing are not supported in Android because it has other libraries for mobile UI development.

In summary, Java is a programming language with a wide range of applications, while Android is a mobile operating system platform that leverages Java for its development. While they share similarities, they have distinct differences in terms of APIs, virtual machines, SDKs, and libraries.

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  • What is the Difference Between Android and Java?
  • Comparative Table: Android vs Java

    • Comparative Table: Android vs Java

    The main difference between Android and Java is that Android is an operating system primarily used for mobile devices, while Java is a programming language that can be used for various purposes, including Android app development. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences between Android and Java:

    Feature Android Java
    Definition Android is an open-source operating system based on the Linux kernel, designed primarily for touchscreen mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Java is a general-purpose, class-based, object-oriented programming (OOP) language developed by Sun Microsystems (now owned by Oracle Corporation) in the mid-1990s.
    Purpose Android provides a platform for developers to create mobile applications using various programming languages, including Java. Java is used for developing various types of applications, such as mobile apps (for Android), web apps, and desktop applications.
    App Development Android apps can be developed using different programming languages, including Java, Kotlin, C++, and others. Android Studio is the official integrated development environment (IDE) for Android app development. Java applications can be developed using various IDEs, such as Android Studio, Eclipse, NetBeans, and others.
    Programming Language Android is not a programming language; it is an operating system that supports the development of apps using various languages, including Java. Java is a programming language used for developing Android apps, along with other types of applications.
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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.