On the lookout for a top-notch Android developer? Well, you’ve come to the right place! These Android technical interview questions are here to aid you in your search for the perfect candidate (whether you’re looking for a basic-level developer or a senior-level one) to bring your Android app development goals to life. We understand the importance of finding the right fit for the role and your company culture. These Android interview questions are here to help you feel like a pro when it comes to chatting with potential Android developers. So, let’s get cracking and find the best developer!
Junior Android Developer Interview Questions
Junior Android developers have less than two years of experience in most cases. Although they are not usually as well-versed with complex topics in the way an advanced developer would be, they should understand the basics and have the willingness to learn and implement new Android development ideas. Here are good Android interview questions and answers to ask a junior developer candidate during an Android development interview.
What is The Google Android SDK Toolset?
Android SDK is a toolset that Android developers use for design purposes. Notably, the Android SDK contains a graphic user interface that closely resembles the user experience on an Android OS device This allows for more effective testing and bug identification. The developer should be able to explain this toolset. As a follow-up, ask the developer if they use Copy Studio installs for the Android framework.
Can You Explain The Difference Between Implicit Intent and Explicit Intent?
An intent notifies the smartphone user of an alert via message. The Android developer can create an intent that allows the smartphone user to interact when necessary. Explicit intent refers to your own app’s activities. An implicit intent presents activities from another application or system feature. The developer should have an understanding of when and how they both are used and work.
What Language is Supported by Android?
The Java programming language is the supported Android language (technically). However, this is somewhat of a trick question as not all Java files and applications are written in standard Java interface. In many cases, developers use BASIC and Kotlin to develop applications. It is not entirely uncommon to use C++, either.
How Does Android Toast Work? When Would You Use It?
Android Toast provides feedback about an operation. This is in simple language that the user can quickly comprehend. A timeout is usually set along with toasts in the Android platform. This means they disappear after a set amount of time. The implementation of Android Toast should be relatively simple. As it pertains to when it is implemented, it is generally used when an explanation is necessary to enhance the user experience.
Are You Familiar with Zip Compatible Archives?
Zip-compatible archives are files that contain multiple archived files. This beginner question should be an easy one for all Android developers to answer with clarity. To go a step further, have the developer describe how often (and for what purpose) they use zip files during development.
What is the Role of a Broadcast Receiver?
A broadcast receiver in Android architecture consists of a component that allows for system registration or application events. It usually includes notification of registered events by runtime. The developer should be able to describe how they call a broadcast receiver within Android mobile devices.
What are Android API Features? Provide Examples
The developer you hire must have an understanding of API and API features. There are many different features that they may use as examples. For instance, the developer may name:
- Camera API
- Map Padding
- Dynamic markers
- Offline maps
- Chat bubbles
When Would You Use an Android Debug Bridge?
An Android debug bridge (ADB) is “a versatile command-line tool that lets you communicate with a mobile device.” Consider asking each developer about how ADB works for debugging purposes, and how the developer can issue ADB commands.
Middle Android Developer Interview Questions
Mid-level Android developers generally have 2 to 5 years of experience or have displayed skills above what would be expected from a junior Android developer. Below are great Android interview questions to ask mid-level Android developers. These Android developer interview questions are intended to be more challenging but relatively easy for a mid-level developer to answer concisely.
Describe the Importance of the Android Packaging Kit
An Android packing kit, also called an Android asset packaging tool, Android packaging key, or an APK, are file format that is specifically used for Android operating systems. APK files are known as the official integrated development environment (IDE) for Android software. The developer should be able to explain the Android programming codes and assets that are a part of the Android packaging kit.
What is the Role of XML Files and Layouts?
XML files are used for data storage purposes and are in plain text format. For Android, in particular, XML is used for user interface (UI) data. This is because it is a lightweight markup option. Otherwise, layouts could become too heavy if XLM files and layouts are not used. The developer should be able to explain XML files, and you can ask more about the benefits as a follow-up question.
How Do You Ensure Data Security During Android Development?
Developers should have a keen sense of app data security when developing Android projects. For instance, defining data security is a way they could show you they understand it well. Additionally, ask each developer you interview about access data and raw sensor data. They should also be able to describe how to receive user input events as they relate to security purposes as well.
What are Sensor Event Notifications?
A Sensor Event notification provides information via a notification during certain specified times. The developer should be able to describe how to create a sensor event when they would do so and discuss how the user receives sensor event notifications.
What is a Highly Optimized Virtual Machine?
A highly optimized virtual machine contains a high memory-to-CPU ratio. This makes it excellent for larger caches and relational database servers. You can also ask the developer to describe how they optimize the virtual machine to perform the way that it should within the Android-specific interface. There are also different sizes for virtual machines. The developer should be able to describe the different sizes.
How Does a Command Line Tool Work?
A command line tool is a part of the command line interface (CLI), a text-based user interface that serves multiple functions such as managing computer files and running programs. The developer should be able to provide examples of command line tools and provide an overview of how it works.
What is the difference between testing mobile devices and testing mobile applications?
Mobile testing focuses on the device’s functions, such as Contacts, SMS, browsers, and calling, while mobile application testing evaluates the capabilities and functionality of apps on the mobile device.
Android Senior Developer Interview Questions
A Senior Android developer typically has 6+ years of experience and/or has displayed capabilities that set them apart from other developers. Of course, senior developers, who usually come with a higher price tag, are expected to display knowledge above that of freshers and mid-level Android developers. Here are several Android developer interview questions for senior developers.
How Does the Android Interface Definition Language (AIDL) Work?
The Android Interface Definition Language, also called the AIDL, constructs C++ or Java bindings. This ensures the interface can be used across various processes. Although junior and mid-level developers should have an understanding of what AIDL is, a senior developer should be able to go a step further and explain precisely how it works and its importance for Android app development.
Explain the Difference Between a Fragment and an Activity
An activity is a target component of the Android applications or web page with which users can interact. This activity is not dependent on a fragment. A fragment, on the other hand, is a part of an activity. In most cases, its purpose is to contribute to the user interface (UI). In other words, a fragment (as the term implies) is dependent on an activity and cannot independently exist.
Give Me Examples of Memory Management in Android Development
The two most common examples of management memory environments in Android application development are ART and the DALVIK virtual machine. The purpose of these memory management environments is to keep track of each memory allocation. As a follow-up question, consider asking the developer about cache memory and its purpose.
Provide an Example of How to Create Apps’ Execution Path
This is a more advanced question. However, all developers should have an understanding of the execution path for Android architecture components. This includes insights into the main thread and its purpose, runtime, launch modes, and more. For a more in-depth follow-up question, ask the developer about the purpose and use of a configuration change.
What is a Default Java Serialization Scheme?
A default Java serialization scheme is the process of converting an object into a stream of bytes. This allows it to be saved or transferred to a database more effectively. Although it is a relatively complex process, the developer should be able to understand how they would accomplish this.
What is the Relationship Between JobScheduler and Back Scheduling?
JobScheduler is an Android API that is used to schedule jobs that should be automatically executed. Similarly, the developer should be able to explain back scheduling and how it relates to JobScheduler.
Searching for an Android Developer? Contact JayDevs Today
We hope these Android interview questions will help you feel more comfortable with future interviews with Android application developers. If you’re searching for the perfect Android developer, consider hiring Android developers with JayDevs. We pre-vet and provide experienced Android developers who perfectly fit your project. So, don’t hesitate to contact us today for more information.
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