When it comes to mobile applications development for Android there could be times when the process could be difficult. Dealing with a multitude of screen sizes and pixel densities calls for the better styling of apps to target the variety of screen configurations. Layouts need to be designed to flow seamlessly while images need to be scaled precisely so that users are presented with a simple yet elegant interface. In the case of game apps for Android it is important to understand the complexities involved in designing according to screen size and pixel densities.
Keep the first user experience in mind
User experience is paramount and the key to maximizing your potential to build a successful app with high download counts. The first questions on the mind of a user are:
- Where am I going with this app?
- What can I do here on this page?
- What can I do next on this app?
These are key questions that an app developer needs to address when designing the UI. If you make the first launch experience for users easy in the first couple of seconds, they are sure to explore further. Your design must be simple enough to convince users that it is the right app within a few seconds.
Let users get through your app quickly
Smartphone users are going to fire up your app while on the move or at a coffee table where they would have just their thumb to navigate through your app. Your design ought to include flip, scroll and touch for them to navigate easily from one screen to the next with the least hassles.
Don’t keep users waiting
No matter what, don’t keep your users waiting. The user interface must be designed to get relevant results quickly, which means you need to focus on improving the performance of your app. Let them feel there is something working by adding spinners and progress bars. Avoid letting them ever being confronted with a blank screen. You may have read numerous app reviews that complain about long waiting periods. This is what you must avoid in mobile applications development.
Portrait vs. landscape modes
Android devices have more than one phone orientation where some users are comfortable working in portrait mode while others may prefer to switch to landscape mode. This is even more relevant in game apps for Android. The landscape mode offers a different user experience with two thumbs available to interact with the screen. If you have an app with extensive reading and writing you will want to ensure the best possible design in landscape mode. Use the wide layout to display information differently from the portrait mode. The buttons that were at the top of the screen in portrait mode can be moved to the side.
