13 Best Android App Development Programming Languages

The programming languages commonly used for Android app development include Java, Kotlin, Dart, C++, C#, JavaScript, Python, React Native, Swift, Xamarin, HTML and CSS, Corona, and Flutter. Java has a long-standing reputation for robustness, Kotlin has modern syntax and null safety, Dart has seamless integration with Flutter, and C++ has high performance for resource-intensive tasks.

Programming Languages Used in Android App Development are:

• Java
• Kotlin
• Dart
• C++
• C#
• JavaScript
• Python
• React Native
• Swift
• Xamarin
• HTML and CSS
• Corona
• Flutter

Android app development involves creating applications for the Android operating system using languages and frameworks optimized for mobile devices. The process typically includes writing code, designing user interfaces, testing functionality, and deploying the final product.

According to a comprehensive study published by the Android Authority in their “2024 Developer Survey Report,” Kotlin is now the most widely adopted language for Android app development, with 58% of developers identifying it as their primary choice.

Java

Java is a versatile and mature programming language that has been at the core of Android development since the platform’s inception. It supports platform independence through the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), and it features a large ecosystem of libraries and frameworks that streamline the development process.

Java is best suited for creating robust, complex Android applications that require extensive backend integration, advanced data handling, or support for legacy codebases. Its established position in the Android ecosystem ensures that developers have access to a wealth of resources, including documentation, community support, and third-party tools.

Pros of Java

• Platform independence via the JVM.
• Extensive documentation and a large developer community.
• Rich ecosystem of libraries and tools.
• Object-oriented programming supports scalable and maintainable code.

Cons of Java

• Verbose syntax compared to modern languages like Kotlin.
• Higher potential for boilerplate code, which slows down the development of smaller apps.
• Less expressive language constructs make some tasks more cumbersome.

Kotlin

Kotlin is a modern, statically typed programming language designed to work well with Java. It has become the preferred choice for Android app development. Officially supported by Google since 2017, Kotlin simplifies code structure, reduces boilerplate, and offers enhanced null safety features, which prevent common programming errors. Its concise syntax and interoperability with Java have made it a favorite among both new and experienced developers.

Kotlin is best suited for developers who want to create efficient, maintainable, and modern Android applications. It’s particularly effective for building scalable apps, improving developer productivity, and integrating smoothly with existing Java codebases. The language’s readability and expressive features lead to cleaner code, making development faster and less error-prone.

Pros of Kotlin

• Concise and expressive syntax reduces boilerplate code.
• Built-in null safety prevents many common runtime errors.
• Fully interoperable with Java, making it easy to adopt in existing projects.
• Modern language features, such as extension functions and coroutines, streamline asynchronous programming.

Cons of Kotlin

• Slower compilation times compared to Java in certain scenarios.
• Smaller community and fewer third-party libraries compared to Java.
• Newer language, so less mature tooling and fewer long-term use cases.

Dart

Dart is a programming language developed by Google that powers the Flutter framework, making it a compelling choice for Android app development. Known for its fast compilation and intuitive syntax, Dart is designed to simplify cross-platform development by allowing developers to write a single codebase for Android, iOS, and web apps.

Dart is best suited for developers looking to build visually appealing, high-performance mobile applications that work seamlessly on both Android and iOS. Its compatibility with Flutter gives it a unique advantage. It provides a rich set of pre-designed widgets and tools that help create beautiful and responsive user interfaces.

Pros of Dart

• Excellent cross-platform support, enabling a single codebase for Android, iOS, and web apps.
• Fast development cycles due to JIT compilation and hot reload.
• Comprehensive set of built-in widgets for creating visually consistent user interfaces.
• Strong performance on Android devices due to AOT compilation.

Cons of Dart

• Smaller community compared to Java or Kotlin.
• Fewer native libraries and integrations outside of Flutter.
• Requires learning a new framework (Flutter) for full utilization.

C++

C++ is a powerful and performance-oriented programming language often used in Android development for tasks requiring high computational efficiency and low-level system access. While not a primary language for most Android app projects, it is employed via the Android Native Development Kit (NDK) to handle CPU-intensive operations, graphics, and hardware-level programming.

C++ is best suited for developers working on high-performance gaming applications, real-time simulations, or processing-intensive tasks that demand optimal performance. Its integration with Android’s NDK allows for leveraging native code, enabling the creation of resource-efficient applications. Its versatility and close-to-hardware capabilities make it a valuable tool for specialized use cases.

Pros of C++

• High-performance execution for resource-intensive tasks.
• Access to low-level system resources and hardware features.
• Broad compatibility with existing C++ libraries and tools.
• Suitable for cross-platform development when combined with appropriate frameworks.

Cons of C++

• Steeper learning curve, especially for developers accustomed to managed languages.
• Increased development complexity due to manual memory management.
• Limited use in standard Android development compared to Java or Kotlin.
• Slower iteration cycles due to a lack of native hot-reload capabilities.

C#

C# is a high-level, object-oriented programming language developed by Microsoft that is used for Android app development through the Xamarin framework. C# enables developers to write clean, maintainable code. Its strong type checking and garbage collection mechanisms help reduce common runtime errors. Its built-in support for asynchronous programming simplifies handling tasks like network requests and background processing.

C# is best suited for developers who want to create cross-platform mobile applications. Xamarin allows the same codebase to be used across Android, iOS, and Windows devices, making it a strong choice for projects that require consistent functionality and appearance on multiple platforms.

Pros of C#

• Cross-platform development with Xamarin, reducing duplication of code.
• Simplified asynchronous programming with async and await keywords.
• Strong integration with Microsoft tools and services, such as Visual Studio.
• Readable, maintainable syntax that reduces development time.

Cons of C#

• Dependence on Xamarin results in larger app sizes and slightly lower performance.
• Licensing costs are associated with some Microsoft tools and services.
• Smaller Android developer community compared to Java or Kotlin.
• Limited native Android integrations compared to languages like Java.

JavaScript

JavaScript is a versatile, high-level programming language used for web development. With the rise of frameworks like React Native and Ionic, it has become a viable option for creating Android apps. JavaScript allows developers to write a single codebase that runs on multiple platforms, including Android, iOS, and web browsers.

JavaScript is best suited for developers looking to build cross-platform applications with shared codebases and web-like user interfaces. It is especially useful for teams that already have experience in web development, allowing them to transition to mobile app development without learning a completely new language.

Pros of JavaScript

• Extensive ecosystem with numerous libraries and frameworks.
• Cross-platform compatibility through frameworks like React Native.
• Familiarity for web developers reduces the learning curve.
• Fast development cycles due to hot-reload capabilities.

Cons of JavaScript

• Performance does not match that of native Android development languages.
• Limited access to certain platform-specific features without using additional plugins.
• Potentially larger app sizes due to the inclusion of frameworks and dependencies.
• Reliance on third-party frameworks introduces additional complexity.

Python

Python is a high-level programming language known for its simplicity, readability, and versatility. Although not traditionally associated with Android development, Python is used for mobile app creation through tools like Kivy or BeeWare. These frameworks allow developers to write Python code and deploy it on multiple platforms, including Android.

Python is best suited for prototyping, educational purposes, or applications that require heavy computation or integration with advanced data processing capabilities. Its straightforward syntax and extensive documentation make it accessible to developers of all experience levels.

Pros of Python

• Simple, easy-to-read syntax that speeds up development.
• Large standard library and third-party packages for various functionalities.
• Cross-platform support through frameworks like Kivy.
• Strong integration with machine learning and data science tools.

Cons of Python

• Not natively supported for Android development; requires additional frameworks or libraries.
• Slower performance compared to native Android languages.
• Limited access to certain Android-specific features without extensive customization.
• Smaller community and fewer resources for Android-specific projects.

React Native

React Native is a popular framework developed by Meta (formerly Facebook) that allows developers to build mobile apps using JavaScript. It enables the creation of cross-platform applications, meaning the same codebase runs on both Android and iOS. React Native achieves near-native performance by using native components and a bridge to communicate with the platform’s APIs.

React Native is best suited for developers aiming to deliver consistent user experiences across multiple platforms quickly. It’s a strong choice for teams that have existing JavaScript expertise and want to extend their applications to mobile devices without learning entirely new programming languages.

Pros of React Native

• Single codebase for both Android and iOS platforms.
• Faster development cycles with hot-reload.
• Access to a large ecosystem of JavaScript libraries and community support.
• Near-native performance for most user interface elements.

Cons of React Native

• It requires native code for complex features, increasing project complexity.
• Performance is slightly lower than fully native apps.
• Dependency on third-party plugins for certain platform-specific functionalities.
• Frequent updates to the framework require ongoing maintenance.

Swift

Swift is a programming language developed by Apple for building applications on iOS, macOS, and other Apple platforms. While not natively designed for Android, Swift is used in cross-platform development environments and certain frameworks that target multiple operating systems. Swift simplifies coding and helps reduce common errors.

Swift is best suited for developers already working within Apple’s ecosystem or those using cross-platform tools that allow Swift code to run on Android. It is particularly well-suited for applications that need efficient performance and clean, maintainable code.

Pros of Swift

• Modern syntax and strong type safety reduce errors and improve code readability.
• High performance, comparable to native languages.
• Robust support from Apple’s ecosystem, including well-maintained documentation and development tools.
• Growing popularity and community support, making it easier to find resources and solutions.

Cons of Swift

• Not natively supported on Android; requires cross-platform frameworks or tools.
• Smaller community for Android development compared to Java or Kotlin.
• Fewer third-party libraries and integrations directly targeting Android.
• Learning curve for developers unfamiliar with Apple’s ecosystem.

Xamarin

Xamarin is a cross-platform development framework that allows developers to build Android apps using C#. It leverages the .NET ecosystem, enabling the creation of native user interfaces and direct access to Android APIs. By sharing a portion of code between platforms, Xamarin reduces development time and effort while maintaining near-native performance.

Xamarin is best suited for teams that prioritize code sharing across multiple platforms, such as Android and iOS, and require a high level of performance and platform-specific capabilities. It’s particularly useful for projects that rely on existing .NET codebases or need strong integration with enterprise systems.

Pros of Xamarin

• Single codebase that is reused across Android, iOS, and other platforms.
• Access to native Android APIs for enhanced functionality.
• Near-native performance thanks to platform-specific optimizations.
• Strong integration with Microsoft tools and support.

Cons of Xamarin

• Larger app sizes compared to fully native Android development.
• Steeper learning curve for developers new to the .NET ecosystem.
• Slower adoption of new Android features compared to Kotlin or Java.
• Reliance on Microsoft’s ecosystem limits flexibility for certain projects.

HTML and CSS

HTML and CSS, while traditionally web development technologies, are used in Android app development through frameworks like Apache Cordova or Capacitor. These frameworks wrap web applications in a native shell, allowing HTML and CSS to define the app’s structure and styling. This approach lets web developers create mobile applications, reducing the learning curve for transitioning to mobile platforms.

HTML and CSS are best suited for developers aiming to deploy simple, content-focused apps or prototypes on Android quickly. While not ideal for complex, high-performance applications, they help build basic user interfaces and static content apps.

Pros of HTML and CSS

• Leverages widely known web development skills.
• Enables rapid prototyping and simple interface creation.
• Compatible with cross-platform frameworks like Cordova or Capacitor.
• Minimal learning curve for web developers.

Cons of HTML and CSS

• Limited native functionality and performance.
• Heavy reliance on third-party plugins for Android-specific features.
• Not suitable for resource-intensive or complex applications.
• User experience feels less smooth compared to native Android apps.

Corona

Corona, now known as Solar2D, is a lightweight, open-source framework designed for creating mobile applications, including Android apps, using the Lua programming language. It is highly optimized for performance and allows developers to build 2D games and apps quickly with minimal setup. Corona’s streamlined API and comprehensive documentation make it easy to learn, even for developers with limited experience in mobile development.

Corona is best suited for developers looking to create simple 2D games, interactive educational apps, or other lightweight applications that don’t require advanced 3D graphics or complex native functionality. Its focus on simplicity and speed makes it an excellent choice for small teams or individual developers.

Pros of Corona

• Easy-to-learn Lua language with a gentle learning curve.
• Fast development cycles due to its straightforward API and real-time testing.
• Optimized for 2D graphics and lightweight applications.
• Open-source framework with an active community.

Cons of Corona

• Limited support for complex native Android features.
• Not ideal for applications requiring heavy backend integration or advanced 3D graphics.
• Smaller community and fewer libraries compared to mainstream Android languages.
• Dependency on Lua, which is unfamiliar to some developers.

Flutter

Flutter is an open-source UI software development toolkit from Google. It is known for its ability to create visually stunning, natively compiled applications for Android, iOS, web, and desktop from a single codebase.

Flutter uses the Dart programming language and provides a rich set of pre-designed widgets that help developers build custom interfaces quickly. Flutter’s “hot reload” feature further speeds up development by allowing immediate viewing of changes without restarting the application.

Pros of Flutter

• Flutter offers a single codebase for Android, iOS, and beyond.
• It has a rich set of customizable widgets and a modern UI framework.
• Hot reload for rapid development and testing.
• Has strong support from Google and a growing community.

Cons of Flutter

• Requires learning Dart, which is new to some developers.
• Larger app sizes compared to fully native Android apps.
• Less mature ecosystem compared to long-established platforms.
• Potential performance differences compared to purely native solutions.

What Is Android App Development?

Android app development refers to the process of creating applications that run on the Android operating system. Developers utilize a combination of programming languages, frameworks, and development tools to design, code, test, and deploy apps that perform a wide range of functions.

The Android application development process typically involves writing code in languages like Java, Kotlin, or C++, using integrated development environments (IDEs) such as Android Studio. It also entails leveraging the Android Software Development Kit (SDK) and various libraries to handle user interfaces, networking, data storage, and device-specific functionalities..

What Programming Languages Are Used To Develop iOS Apps?

The programming languages used to develop iOS apps are Swift, Objective-C, C++, Python, and C#. These iOS app development languages are often used to build apps that integrate seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem. According to Apple’s official documentation on iOS development (2024), Swift is widely considered the best choice for building new iOS apps.

The programming languages used to develop iOS apps are

• Swift: Apple introduced Swift in 2014 as the primary language for iOS app development. It’s known for its concise and modern syntax, which helps developers write clean, maintainable code. Additionally, Swift’s performance optimizations and safety features, such as type safety and automatic memory management, reduce common programming errors, making it the go-to choice for iOS projects.
• Objective-C: Objective-C is a mature, object-oriented programming language historically used for Apple’s software ecosystem. It supports dynamic runtime capabilities and a vast collection of frameworks, ensuring stable and robust app development. Although now less favored than Swift, Objective-C remains relevant for maintaining older codebases and integrating legacy projects.
• C++: C++ is a high-performance programming language often used in iOS apps that require computationally intensive tasks. Its close-to-hardware nature allows developers to optimize code for graphics rendering, advanced algorithms, and real-time processing. While not the primary language for iOS development, C++ is employed in specialized scenarios where speed and efficiency are critical.
• Python: While not natively supported for iOS, Python is utilized via frameworks or bridging tools. It is valued for its simplicity, readability, and a broad array of libraries that support rapid prototyping. Python is often chosen for scripting, backend tasks, or integration with machine learning models, complementing other development efforts within iOS projects.
• C#: C# is a versatile language commonly used in conjunction with Xamarin, a cross-platform framework for building iOS and Android applications. It allows developers to share portions of code across multiple platforms, reducing duplication. C#’s strong typing, asynchronous programming support, and integration with the .NET ecosystem make it an effective choice for enterprise-level and cross-platform development.

What Programming Languages Are Used For Cross-Platform App Development?

The programming languages used for cross-platform app development include React Native (JavaScript), Flutter (Dart), Xamarin (C#), and Ionic (HTML, CSS, and JavaScript). These frameworks and languages enable developers to build cross-platform applications that run on both Android and iOS from a single codebase.

According to a study by Statista titled “Cross-Platform Development Frameworks,” 2023, React Native will hold 42% of the market share for cross-platform mobile development, followed by Flutter at 39%.

The programming languages used for cross-platform app development:

• React Native (JavaScript): React Native uses JavaScript and allows developers to create native-like apps for Android and iOS. Its component-based architecture and large community support make it a popular choice for building cross-platform applications.
• Flutter (Dart): Flutter uses Dart and provides a rich set of pre-designed widgets for creating highly responsive and attractive user interfaces. With hot reload and fast performance, it simplifies the development of cross-platform apps that feel native on both Android and iOS.
• Xamarin (C#): Xamarin allows developers to use C# and .NET to create cross-platform apps with near-native performance. It integrates seamlessly with Visual Studio, and its shared code approach reduces duplication while maintaining platform-specific customization.
• Ionic (HTML, CSS, and JavaScript): Ionic is a hybrid framework that leverages web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It allows developers to build apps that run on Android, iOS, and the web, making it ideal for teams that prioritize rapid development and web integration.

What Programming Language Does Android Studio Support?

Android Studio primarily supports Java and Kotlin, which Google officially recommends for Android development. Java has been the foundation of Android development since the platform’s early days, offering strong library support, platform independence, and well-established community resources. Kotlin was introduced as an officially supported language in 2017. It provides a more concise syntax, modern language features, and built-in null safety.

In addition, Android Studio also supports C++ through the Android NDK (Native Development Kit), enabling performance-critical tasks like advanced graphics rendering or real-time processing. While Java and Kotlin remain the primary languages, the inclusion of C++ offers flexibility for developers who need low-level control and high-performance optimizations.