Google has launched a new tool for Android developers that will make it easier to create an app that can be used on multiple devices. This new SDK will, for example, allow you to perform actions such as starting a task on your smartphone and ending it on your tablet.
TL; DR
- The Cross device SDK was presented at Google I/O.
- Eventually, this SDK will be available on all devices running Android, Chrome OS, Windows or iOS.
- The cross-device SDK is already available for developers.
After the arrival of Android 13 on its Pixel 6, Google has been busy. Indeed, the Mountain View company has released a new SDK called Cross device SDK. As a reminder, an SDK is a software development kit comprising several tools whose purpose is to facilitate the work of developers. With its new SDK, Google intends to improve the cross-device and could get closer to the experience offered by Apple with its OS.
Better interaction between your different devices
Announced at Google I/O 2022, the Cross device SDK is expected to help developers build apps that work on all types of devices. Google has already taken a first step in this direction with Nearby Sharing, which makes it easier to transfer files to Chromebooks and Android devices.
In a blog post, Google said that technically speaking, the cross-device SDK will make it easier to develop cross-device experiences. It does this by actually simplifying discovery, authentication, and connection protocols for nearby devices. All of this would be based on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and UWB.
Nearby sharing capabilities should be much expanded with the new multi-device SDK / © Android Central
To put it simply, this means that you can finish a payment started on your Smart TV from your smartphone for example, or start reading an article on your tablet and finish it on your Chromebook. Plus, in addition to being able to easily share a route or location with a friend, you’ll also be able to create a bulk order at a restaurant without passing around a single smartphone.
It’s all very exciting, and I personally can’t wait to see what developers do with this new cross-device SDK. Google’s new SDK is already available for developers on Android smartphones and tablets. Later it should come to other devices like Chrome OS, Windows or iOS.
What do you think of Google’s desire to improve interactions between different devices? Do you think the company will succeed in matching Apple with its software experience?
