Top Challenges in Kotlin Android Development and Ways to Address Them

Kotlin is one of the most developed languages for Android development. Its modern features and clean syntax make it a favorable option for companies adopting it for Android development. Furthermore, it has great backing by Google. However, it also has certain problems, like with any technology. Understanding these problems and their solutions is essential to get the most out of it for any developer, whether a novice or seasoned.

In this blog, we shall examine the most common problems in Kotlin Android Development and the most efficient ways to solve the problems.

1. Steep Learning Curve

Nullable types, coroutines, extension functions, and higher-order functions are concepts introduced by Kotlin. Developers used to Java encounter Kotlin for the first time with a steep learning curve.

How to Overcome:

• Begin with small projects.

• Do a checklist of the official documentation and tutorials.

• Convert Java code to Kotlin and practice.

• Advocate for internal workshops and training.

More and more, developers get the hang of it and are more productive in the use of Kotlin.

2. Migration from Existing Java Codebases

Years of Java code building are the standard for most Android applications. There is also the challenge of fully migrating to Kotlin. Developers are concerned about the possibility of functionality disruption, rewriting large amounts of code, or keeping a mixed codebase.

How to Overcome:

•     Convert modules or files one by one.

•     Migrate records gradually.

•     Employ Kotlin-Java interoperability characteristics.

•     Validate in between each migration.

These methods offer high migration flexibility while maintaining performance.

3. Regulation of Coroutines

Developers integrating Kotlin often report struggling to integrate Kotlin Coroutines into the app due to its complexity in terms of lifecycle management, structured concurrency, and memory leaks.

How to Overcome:

•     Adopt recommended coroutine scoping like ViewModelScope and LifecycleScope.

•     Observe structured concurrency.

•     Coroutines that manage the UI lifecycle should be the only ones left.

•     Surveillance problems by using Timber and LeakCanary.

Once the developer has sufficient Kotlin Coroutine knowledge, they can be an invaluable asset in properly configuring app asynchronous tasks.

4. Limited Java Persistence

Limited Java persistence can be a hindrance, and while Kotlin is well supported, it does not have complete library support.

How to Overcome:

•     Kotlin third- or fourth-party open-source libraries.

•     Fully Kotlin-supported Android Jetpack libraries.

•     Where necessary, wrappers or extension functions.

As the Kotlin open-source ecosystem matures, it becomes easier for the developer.

5. Increased APK and Build Size

Kotlin is also known for increasing the size of the APK when migrating to it, although the APK size is usually only marginally larger in size, which can be a large enough issue for apps with stringent size restrictions.

How to Overcome:

• Remove unused code with the use of R8 and ProGuard. 

• Enable optimization and shrinking for your APK build. 

• Clean your dependencies. 

This will help your Android application be efficient and lightweight. 

6. Lack of Experienced Kotlin Developers 

Kotlin is in high demand, and thus, companies and teams looking to use it usually suffer from the lack of qualified developers. This results in extensive delays in the onboarding and development phase. 

How to Overcome:

• Implement appropriate training for your developers. 

• Foster an internal culture of learning. 

• Give your teams the chance to learn through real-world projects. 

• Hire fundamental developers and train them in Kotlin. 

This allows your organization to build internal sustainable capabilities. 

Why Kotlin Still Wins 

Finding delays and onboarding the lack of Kotlin developers in the market, Kotlin greatly enhances Android development, which is why it remains the best option. 

• It enhances code readability. 

• It greatly enhances the quality of development by reducing the number of bugs within the code and cycle time. 

• It speeds up the development time of apps. 

• It offers contemporary tools and libraries for developers to use. 

• It is backed by Google and offers a strong community to support developers. 

Kotlin allows companies to produce more stable and adaptive Android applications in a shorter time frame when implemented correctly.

Conclusion:

Our customers demand professional Kotlin development alongside connections with technology specialists. Softwares in Demand engages with IT and software companies to provide to serious customers in need of high-quality technological products and services. From lead generation to real business connections, the platform provides companies the opportunity for business expansion and the right market penetration.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Kotlin better than Java for Android development?

Kotlin is better for Android development, as it is cleaner, safer, and formally supported by Google.

2. Can I use Kotlin and Java together in one project?

Yes. Kotlin and Java have complete interoperability and can exist together in the same application.

3. How long does it take to learn Kotlin for Android?

If you have experience with Java, you can learn the basics of Kotlin within a few weeks and continue to develop your expertise over a longer period of time.

4. Does Kotlin increase the size of the application?

In a slight manner, yes. However, the size of the final build can still be controlled with the use of appropriate optimization tools.