Android 2.0 is a mobile operating system running on a Linux kernel and first gained attention when Google purchased 22-month-old startup, Android, Inc. back in 2005.  Last week I downloaded the latest Android SDK to see for myself what the platform brings to the table now that it has had time to mature.  All I can say is wow!

What’s in the box?

First of all, the Android 2.0 SDK comes complete with Android libraries, an emulator, emulator skins, sample applications and a nice set of developer tools delivered as a plug-in for Eclipse.  Pretty much everything you need to write an application to run on the Android platform.  Because I work with Java EE on a regular basis, I chose to install the Android SDK and roll the the Android Development Tools (ADT) into my existing GlassFish/Eclipse bundled IDE.  Worked like a charm following the simple instructions on the Android Developers website.

Hello World

After installing the Android SDK and developer tools I followed the Hello World Tutorial and found myself running my first Android application in the emulator in less than 10 minutes.  At first, you’ll feel this awkward sensation and won’t be able to put your finger on it.  Then, you’ll realize that foreign feeling is excitement.  You’re actually excited about coding again and the flames of creativity long stamped out by “the man” will come raging back.  Just try to stop the ideas from popping into your head!