Android Set up Question - Which API Level do I Install?

Question

I'm trying to set up the Android SDK on Ubuntu. Someday I want to make apps that can reach most of the market.

I've heard I need to make the apps compatible with Android 1.6 for this. Does that mean everything I install should be for Android 1.6 (API level 4?). Will I have any trouble running the apps on my phone with is Android 2.1?

Answer 1

If you want an Android 1.6 device to be able to run your application, you must only use functionality in API Level 4 (Android 1.6). Android is forward-portable, so your 2.1 (and 2.2) device will run 1.6 code without any issues.

You can of course install all the API bundles, which will allow you to test on newer firmware on a variety of devices. In my experience, making sure the application behaves well with both on screen and hardware keyboards is the biggest problem in terms of UI layout. The simulator will allow you to test both configurations easily.