Difference Between AndroidX and Android Support Libraries
The Android Support Libraries and AndroidX represent two generations of libraries to provide backward compatibility and additional features for Android apps. They share the same goal but differ in terms of organization, naming, and future development. Here's a comparison:
Historical Context:
- Android Support Libraries: These were the original set of libraries introduced to provide backward compatibility and additional features not present in the Android platform. They have been around since the early days of Android.
- AndroidX: Recognizing the inconsistencies and challenges with the Support Libraries, Google introduced AndroidX as a rebranding and major restructuring of the Support Libraries.
Package Naming:
- Android Support Libraries: Their package names typically start with
android.support.. For example: android.support.v7.app.AppCompatActivity. - AndroidX: Uses a clear and consistent naming convention that starts with
androidx.. The previous example becomes: androidx.appcompat.app.AppCompatActivity.
Versioning:
- Android Support Libraries: They had a somewhat fragmented versioning system, where different parts of the library might have different versions. This could be confusing for developers.
- AndroidX: Adopted a standardized versioning scheme. Each library in AndroidX follows semantic versioning, ensuring consistency and predictability in dependencies.
Development & Updates:
- Android Support Libraries: Google has stopped development on the Support Libraries. Version 28.0.0 is the last release, and no further updates or bug fixes will be provided.
- AndroidX: This is where active development now happens. Google continually updates AndroidX libraries, adding new features, improvements, and bug fixes.
Jetpack:
- Android Support Libraries: Were not a part of the Jetpack suite.
- AndroidX: AndroidX is a part of the Jetpack suite, which encompasses a collection of libraries, tools, and guidance to help developers write high-quality apps more easily. AndroidX serves as the foundation for many Jetpack components.
Migration:
- Android Support Libraries: If you have an older project that still uses the Support Libraries, it's recommended to migrate to AndroidX to benefit from ongoing updates and improvements.
- AndroidX: Android Studio provides a built-in tool to refactor and migrate an existing project from the Support Libraries to AndroidX.
Namespace Artifacts:
- Android Support Libraries: Namespace artifacts were tied to the Android platform's API levels, which sometimes led to confusion and challenges in ensuring compatibility.
- AndroidX: Adopted a clear separation from platform API levels, ensuring that namespace artifacts aren't tied to specific Android versions.
In summary, while both the Android Support Libraries and AndroidX aim to provide backward compatibility and extended features, AndroidX is a more organized, consistent, and actively maintained iteration. Developers starting new projects or maintaining older projects are encouraged to use or migrate to AndroidX for the best support and latest features.
