Google has today released the final version of their Google TV SDK to developers following up from the preview build which was released back in August. The announcement was made via the Google TV Developers twitter account “googletvdev”, in a tweet announcing the release of the final Android SDK add-on for Google TV.
The differences between this and the version released back in August are minor says Google, but now that the final version is available to developers, it will be interesting to see what applications will be developed for Google TV over the coming months.
Key Updates and Features
Google explains the differences in this version from the preview release are minor:
“We heard your feedback, and the Action Bar now renders horizontally, in line with other Android devices. We’ve published code for a left-side navigation bar since that may work better for navigating with D-Pad when you have vertically scrolling lists. Check out an example app built using the sample code here.
There are additional keys on the screen for quick access, e.g., picture-in-picture, fast forward, channel up/down, etc. Please note that these keys will only work with the next Android SDK Tools, revision 14.”
The final version of the Google TV SDK includes several enhancements aimed at improving the user experience and making it easier for developers to create engaging applications. One of the most notable changes is the horizontal rendering of the Action Bar, which aligns with the design of other Android devices. This consistency helps users transition seamlessly between different Android platforms.
Developer Tools and Resources
In addition to the Action Bar update, Google has also provided code for a left-side navigation bar. This feature is particularly useful for navigating with a D-Pad, especially when dealing with vertically scrolling lists. Developers can access this code and see an example app built using the sample code here.
Another significant addition is the inclusion of extra keys on the screen for quick access to functions like picture-in-picture, fast forward, and channel up/down. These keys are designed to enhance the viewing experience by providing easy access to frequently used features. However, it’s important to note that these keys will only be functional with the next Android SDK Tools, revision 14.
The release of the final Google TV SDK marks a significant milestone for developers looking to create applications for the platform. With these new tools and resources, developers have the opportunity to innovate and deliver unique experiences to users. The potential for new applications is vast, ranging from streaming services and interactive content to gaming and utility apps.
Google’s commitment to improving the Google TV platform is evident in these updates. By listening to developer feedback and making necessary adjustments, Google is ensuring that the platform remains competitive and user-friendly. As more developers begin to explore the capabilities of the final SDK, we can expect to see a surge in creative and functional applications that will enhance the Google TV experience.
Source: Android Police
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