Why An Android Developer Should Learn OpenGL?

Android supports development of a wide range of application and there many categories for which Android app developers can develop for. This offers them a lucrative opportunity to polish their app development skills. There are a few things that Android developers need to take into account to ensure that they create good quality apps. One is to keep themselves updated and aware of the latest trend, tools and technologies. For instance the use of OpenGL APIs to develop Android applications with great interfaces and for faster and easier creation of gaming applications.

OpenGL (Open Graphics Library) is a graphics API that specifies a standard application interface for 3D graphics processing hardware. Android includes support for 2D and 3D graphics with the OpenGL Es API through its framework API and the Native development Kit. Some developers rely on the NDK for application with graphics but current trends show that OpenGL is the way to go.

Here are some of the reasons why OpenGL is important for Android developers:

OpenGL SE is the standard applications programming interface (API) for 3D graphics on Android. It is also the most widely used API for 3D graphics on mobile devices nowadays. It is used for acceleration of both 2D and 3D graphics. Previously, Android was released with OpenGL acceleration being somehow optional. However as this mobile operating system has continued to evolve and screen sizes of devices made larger, OpenGL Es has become a crucial part of the graphic system for Android. It is thus not just important for an Android developer to learn OpenGL but it is becoming necessary.

Using the OpenGL approach for interfaces allows great flexibility in the process of generating images while rendering speed and quality. For the developers who have mastered the functionality, can combine the different pieces to form building blocks for producing new graphics capability and creation of innovative techniques. This makes programmers think of it as a “graphics assembly Language”.

Another reason why an Android developer should learn OpenGL is because it can be implemented across a wide range of hardware platforms. Specifications of an image are not pixel exact and this ensures that two different OpenGL implementations cannot render an image in the exact same way. This avoids the limitation on kinds of hardware acceleration to be used. Use of OpenGL therefore allows a developer to develop applications that are platform independent as Android supports seamless applications and software.

When using OpenGL a developer does not have to worry about how to add graphical enhancements which are not backed up with canvas APIs. As developer, learning OpenGL will allow you to be ahead of many other developers who try to fake 3D with 2D. OpenGL will enable you to create and manipulate clear 3D graphics. Today wide range of software and applications rich in graphics for various industries with various functionalities are being developed. Android supports numerous of these applications as well as rich 3D games because of the integrated OpenGL ES. As an Android developer you should learn OpenGL to ensure you develop Android Applications that will be competitive in the market considering these current trends.

In conclusion, it is very important for any android developer who want to be successful to ensure he keeps well informed and updated of the current trends in android development. This indicates that learning OpenGL is very important for an android developer. It offers you the flexibility and easy means to develop great application that will meet the current market standards. The market for android applications is currently booming as more people are giving preference to use android over other mobile operating systems. To take advantage of this available market and thrive, a developer must create quality applications.

Learning OpenGL will enable a developer to meet this goal as any android gaming or application requiring nice graphics can only be developed with great graphics using OpenGL. Android developer who is well versed with OpenGL will have no problem developing quality applications with great graphics and applications that are robust and scalable. Thus learning OpenGL is very important for android developers who want to be lead in developing intuitive and innovative android applications.