Apps Newbie - Developing applications without Android Dev Phone

[flowersinlondon]

Hi,

I am thinking of dipping my toe into the world of Android Development. I am a completely newbie when it comes to developing Java / Mobile tech applications.

I was looking through the Android Developer site and it says I need a Android Dev Phone to test applications. Do I definitely need this? How do other people do it?

I am not planning to make it a paid application, so don't want to spend money if I can avoid it. I have got a HTC Hero right now.

Any suggestions / help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Rootko]

I would say (from my experience) that to start developing actual device is not necessary. SDK's emulator is just enough. After your app has been developed, someone with device can run it.
However, if you are serious with development for any kind of device in general, someday you will face the necessity to buy one so you can fully test your app in real environment.

 

[flowersinlondon]

Thanks very much.

 

[UKLooney]

The dev phone is rooted. You only need to buy one if you want to compile the os yourself. Rooting your own phone will have the same effect as buying a dev phone.

So you should never need one if you are only developing apps.

 

[flowersinlondon]

The dev phone is rooted. You only need to buy one if you want to compile the os yourself. So you should never need one if you are only developing apps.

Thanks very much.