Setup
As Android is an open-source platform, there are open-source tools available to develop, run, and test applications. You will need to download and install the Android SDK, which is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux. Although you may use any editor or IDE, it is highly recommended that you use Eclipse with the Android Development Tools (ADT) plugin. Instructions for how to install and configure all necessary software are at this page. Be sure to run through this setup early so that you aren't spending time on software configuration while you should be working on the first assignment!
If you happen to own an Android device, you may find it easier to run your applications on the device instead of on the emulator. Instructions for how to do this are here - contact the instructor if you run into any issues. In addition, you may have the opportunity to test your applications on an actual device at regular periods in the course.
Using Eclipse with the Android platform, including the emulator and test framework, will be explained in the hands-on lab session.
