If Java is the backbone, Kotlin is the pillar helping Android App Development march forward.
Crux: While Java’s eminence and presence are obvious, we will discuss its emerging, lesser-known, slightly new-ish counterpart, Kotlin, and the features that make it unique.
It goes like this…
Kotlin is a modern alternative to Android App Development. They are favored and supported by Google. This also enhances its scope and makes it adaptable to emerging technologies.
Points of Difference
Syntax, readability, features, data types, null safety and other features are almost the same. While you would expect a little more from Java, its verbose syntax looks more like a ceremonial code. Kotlin on the other hand is concise and expressive. It features data classes, extension functions and type inferences that reduce a set of reusable code patterns that developers use as a starting point for new software projects. Java requires explicit type declarations and getter/setter methods.
Why Kotlin? Why Java?
Both Kotlin and Java support functional programming as they are based on object-oriented programming concepts. It supports (1) lambda expressions, (2) higher-order functions, and (3) inline functions. But procedural programming languages like C, C++, Pascal, Java, Fortran, Common Lisp, and Python cannot lose their significance either. They make use of variables and functions to create reusable procedures that make up a full program.
In Kotlin and Java, the focus is primarily on creating pure functions which are self-contained units that always produce the same output for a given input, with no side effects, and is combined to build complex operations, essentially treating functions as the building blocks of a program, rather than relying heavily on mutable variables and imperative control flow like in procedural programming.
Java is a widely used and established language with extensive documentation and online resources. But when we write, the code often goes long, and if we lose track, there are chances of error.
Kotlin’s syntax and coding structure is less complicated, short, and concise. This makes it readable and understandable. As a result, the chances of errors are also less. Its community is rapidly growing, and it follows the trail left behind by Java. Therefore, it does not look overwhelming to beginners.
Kotlin features like extension functions and higher-order functions enable more expressive and functional programming styles. Coroutines provide efficient ways to handle asynchronous operations.
Kotlin initially had a hard time entering the market where Java was already the global leader in Android App Development. It was extremely difficult to catch the audience’s attention and become popular. But the backing of Google made it stand tall amongst all the contenders (Flutter, Java, JavaScript). Starting new Android projects was initially challenging due to the presence of null-type systems and the slow compilation speed of new builds as compared to Java. Developers must consider whether to use a customized UI. They also face patent-related challenges if they don’t follow quality control guidelines. Integrating additional APIs is difficult. Apps sometimes consume too much battery or storage.
Kotlin Faces Competition
But despite this, Kotlin promises to be the future of Android App Development Companies because its apps are faster and less bulky than Java. The learning curve is not steep, so it is beginner-friendly and it is backward compatible with Java so all the enterprise applications combine elements from multiple architectures to suit the specific needs of an application.
Kotlin already passed the initial interview stages where features, compatibility, scope, and demand in the market, are to be checked.
Kotlin has around 7191 methods (additional) exclusive of 65000 methods which requires developers to have MultiDex support.
While it is faster than Java for incremental builds, its compilation speed is inconsistent. It works well with Java, but there may be issues when working with a mixed codebase of both languages.
Missing symbols in Kotlin multi-platform projects can cause compilation errors. Upgrading to Kotlin plugin version 1.4 can help resolve this issue.
Improper use of coroutines can lead to performance bottlenecks. Overusing coroutines or configuring coroutine contexts incorrectly can impact application performance.
Other challenges that Android developers face include testing fragmentation, user interface design rules, patent and copyright issues, integrating third-party APIs, storage capacity and battery, user privacy concerns and regulations, and Security concerns.
Sneaking into 2025 (Read: Future)
Kotlin is expected to play a significant role in Android app development in the future as it is fully compatible with Java, allowing developers to mix both languages in the same project. It has the potential to modernize existing Java codebases. It offers a more enjoyable development experience.
In 2025, Android app development will be significantly shaped by trends like artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain technology, predictive analytics, 5G integration, cloud computing, voice user interfaces, and multi-device support, as these technologies will enable developers to create highly personalized, responsive, and seamless user experiences across diverse platforms and devices, enhancing app functionality and user engagement.
Why will Kotlin use AI? Such algorithms analyze user data to deliver highly personalized recommendations, content, and features within apps, improving user satisfaction and engagement. By learning user behavior patterns, AI can predict future actions and proactively provide relevant information or assistance, creating a more intuitive experience. AI-powered chatbots can provide real-time customer support and enhance user interaction with natural language processing capabilities.
Why will Kotlin use Blockchain? It is going to be one of the most powerful weapons, pitching in security for sensitive user data and transparent transaction tracking in applications like digital payments or asset management. Blockchain integration enables new business models with peer-to-peer interactions and community-driven applications. By analyzing user data, apps predict user needs and deliver targeted marketing campaigns, improving conversion rates. In financial applications, predictive analytics identify potential risks and take preventive measures.
Why will Kotlin use 5G Technology? Its high speeds and low latency will enable real-time data processing for applications like augmented reality, virtual reality, and live streaming, creating immersive experiences. Its faster data transfer will result in smoother app performance, especially for large media files and complex interactions.
Why will Kotlin use cloud integration? Cloud-based apps easily scale to accommodate fluctuating user loads, eliminating the need for large upfront infrastructure investments. Cloud storage and processing capabilities allow for efficient data management and analysis, enabling better user insights.
Why will Kotlin use a voice user interface? Voice commands will become more prevalent, enabling users to interact with apps without needing to touch their devices, and improving accessibility. Advancements in NLP will allow apps to better understand complex voice commands, leading to more intuitive interactions.
Why will Kotlin use multi-device support? Apps designed to function seamlessly across different devices (smartphones, tablets, wearables) will provide a cohesive user experience across platforms. Multi-device support will enable seamless data syncing, allowing companies to hire Android developers to access information and progress across user’s devices.
Summary of the Conversation
If something happens to Kotlin, Google is there to back it up. So Android app development companies will be in demand, and businesses are looking forward to hire Android app developers who are proficient in developing emerging technologies, migrating Java code, and modernizing existing codebases.
