Android Instant Applications: How to Deploy Your First Instant App

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Android Instant Applications allow users to experience your app without the need to download it. With Instant Apps, users can use your app right from Google Play Store without installing it on their device. Instant Apps have become popular among Android developers because they offer a better user experience, reduce the barrier to entry, and increase engagement.

In this tutorial, we will walk through the process of deploying an Android Instant Application from start to finish.

Prerequisites:

• Android Studio installed on your computer
• Basic knowledge of Android development
• A Google Play Console account

Step 1: Create a New Project in Android Studio

The first step is to create a new project in Android Studio. Open Android Studio and click on “Start a new Android Studio project.” Then, choose “Instant App” from the list of available project templates.

Step 2: Configure Your Project

After creating your new project, you need to configure it for instant app deployment. In the Project Structure window, select the “Modules” tab and click on “Create New Module.” Then, choose “Instant App” from the list of available options.

Step 3: Add Code to Your Instant App Module

Once you’ve created your instant app module, it’s time to add code to it. You’ll need to create a new activity that will serve as the entry point for your instant app. You’ll also need to add the necessary dependencies to your Gradle file.

Step 4: Configure Your Gradle File

After adding code to your instant app module, you need to configure your Gradle file. You’ll need to add the following lines of code to your Gradle file:

apply plugin: 'com.android.instantapp'
instantApp {
    dependencies {
        implementation 'com.google.android.gms:play-services-instantapps:17.0.0'
    }
}

These lines of code tell Gradle that your app is an Instant App and that it requires the Google Play Services Instant Apps library.

Step 5: Build and Test Your Instant App

Now that your instant app is configured, it’s time to build and test it. In Android Studio, click on “Run” to build and deploy your instant app. Once it’s deployed, you can test it by opening the Google Play Store and searching for your app. If everything works correctly, you should see an “Instant” button next to your app’s name.

Step 6: Publish Your Instant App to Google Play Store

After testing your instant app, you’re ready to publish it to the Google Play Store. To do this, open your Google Play Console and create a new release. Select your instant app module and upload your APK. Once the APK is uploaded, you can publish your instant app to the Google Play Store.

Conclusion:

Android Instant Applications are a powerful tool for Android developers. With instant app deployment, you can offer users a better user experience, reduce the barrier to entry, and increase engagement. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can create and deploy your own Android Instant Application in no time.