Android: Install and use SDK - a tutorial

In this tutorial, we explain how to install and use the Android SDK.

Step 1: install JDK

To use the Android SDK, you need the Java JDK.

1. Go to the Oracle website.
2. Click on "Download" at JDK.
3. You then have to accept the "License Agreement" and then click on the respective operating system.
4. After the download, click on the executable file and follow the installation instructions.

Step 2: install Android SDK

Then download the Android SDK.

1. Start the executable file here and follow the installation instructions.
2. The location of the JDK is automatically found during installation.
3. Once the first step is complete, leave the check mark at "Start SDK Manager" and click "Finish".
4. Now the latest Android version is automatically selected for you in the "Android SDK Manager". In addition, check marks are automatically set for various required Android SDK tools.
5. Confirm with "Install ... packages", click on "Accept License" and start the installation with the "Install" button.
6. The installation takes a while. Finally, close the SDK manager.

Step 3: start Android emulator

1. In the programs you will find the "AVD Manager" under "Android SDK Tools". Start this.
2. Click the "Create" button.
3. Under "AVD Name" enter any name for your virtual device.
4. Select your desired device under "Device". Under "Target" enter your Android operating system version.
5. You still have various options here to increase the memory or assign an SD card to your virtual device. You should not enter a huge amount of memory under "RAM", otherwise the emulator will often not start. A value like around 600 MB is sufficient.
6. Finally, confirm the settings with "OK".
7. Mark the created device under "Android Virtual Devices" and start the emulator via "Start" and "Launch".