Android 16 introduces an innovative feature called cloud compilation that aims to enhance the speed of app installations on various devices, especially low-end ones. Traditionally, the installation process required running the dex2oat tool to generate application artifact files from APK files.
This step can be particularly time-consuming on devices with weaker processors and slower storage, leading to prolonged installation times for larger applications. With cloud compilation, the compilation work is shifted to the cloud, meaning that application artifacts can now be downloaded directly from the Google Play Store rather than being generated on the device.
This change is designed to significantly reduce installation time, allowing users with less powerful hardware to enjoy a smoother experience. To understand how cloud compilation operates, it’s crucial to know a bit about the application artifacts produced during installation.
These artifacts, created by the Android Runtime (ART), help the system execute application code more efficiently. They come in several forms, such as .vdex files, which expedite bytecode verification; .odex files, which contain pre-compiled methods; and .art files, aiding in quicker app startup.
While high-end Android devices can quickly generate these artifacts, budget devices face challenges, particularly when handling multiple .dex files in APKs. The shift to downloading precompiled artifacts instead of generating them could potentially save time.
Currently, the cloud compilation feature in Android 16 is not fully operational, as it necessitates adjustments to the Play Store’s infrastructure to serve these artifacts alongside APKs efficiently. As Google implements this feature, it may initially be optional due to increased data usage for users.
Overall, the development of cloud compilation could mark a significant improvement in the app installation process, and further updates on this feature promise to be intriguing for users and developers alike.
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