Among one of many reasons to target the Android platform, first and foremost is cost. On average you can get an Android smartphone for a fraction of the cost of an iPhone. They may not have commensurate features, but thrift is a major component for new smartphone buyers. Next is flexibility. Developers can often find on cheap and imported Android devices a version of Google Play that is maintained by the manufacturer.  Developers should develop as if they expect their app to be available to all Android devices. To participate in the Discussion, respond to the Discussion prompt by Day 3. Then, read a selection of your colleagues’ postings. Finally, respond to at least two classmates by Day 5 in one or more of the following ways: Return to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights you have gained as a result of the comments your colleagues made.

One of the primary reasons for targeting the Android platform is the cost advantage it offers. On average, Android smartphones are significantly cheaper compared to iPhones. While they may not have all the features and functionalities of an iPhone, the cost factor plays a pivotal role for new smartphone buyers who are budget conscious. This makes Android smartphones an attractive option for a larger segment of the population.

Another advantage of targeting the Android platform is the flexibility it provides to developers. Unlike iOS, Android allows developers to create apps that can be installed on a wide range of devices from various manufacturers. This means that developers need to ensure that their apps are compatible and optimized for different screen sizes, hardware configurations, and operating system versions. By doing so, they can make their apps accessible to a larger user base.

Furthermore, developers can often find cheap and imported Android devices that come pre-installed with a version of Google Play that is maintained by the manufacturer. This gives developers the opportunity to test their apps on different devices before releasing them to a wider audience. It also allows them to understand any hardware specific limitations or compatibility issues that may arise.

In order to maximize the reach of their apps, developers should aim to make them available to all Android devices. By adopting a platform-agnostic approach, they can ensure that their apps can be installed on a wide range of devices, regardless of their brand or model. This can lead to increased exposure and potential downloads, as well as a higher chance of attracting a diverse user base.

In conclusion, targeting the Android platform offers several advantages to developers. The cost advantage of Android smartphones appeals to budget-conscious buyers, while the flexibility of the platform allows for compatibility with a wider range of devices. Developers should strive to make their apps available to all Android devices in order to maximize their reach and potential user base.