Overview
This Application Note details the process of designing, packaging, deploying, and running an Android application using the Zebra Link-OS™ Multiplatform SDK and Smartphone Utility. It covers the essential steps for developers to create applications that can connect and print with Zebra mobile printers.
Target Audience
This document is intended for individuals with technical proficiency in Microsoft Windows, Java development using the Android Studio Integrated Development Environment (IDE), and a solid understanding of core programming concepts.
System Prerequisites
To begin Android development, ensure you have the following prerequisites installed:
- Java Development Kit (JDK)
- Android Studio
- A physical Zebra mobile device for testing
- Zebra Link-OS Multiplatform SDK
- A network-enabled Zebra printer supporting ZPL or CPCL
For more information on the Zebra Link-OS Multiplatform SDK, visit the Zebra Developer Portal.
Creating Your Zebra Android Connect and Print Application Project
This section guides you through creating a mobile application that enables a handheld device to establish a Bluetooth or TCP/IP connection with a Zebra mobile printer. The process involves setting up your project in Android Studio, defining layouts, creating helper classes, and integrating the Zebra SDK.
Key steps include:
- Creating a new Android Project in Android Studio.
- Designing the application's user interface and layout files.
- Implementing Java helper classes for specific functionalities.
- Updating the main application file and including the Zebra Multiplatform SDK library.
- Building and running the application on an emulator or a physical device.
- Deploying the application by generating a signed APK file.
For further details and sample code, explore the resources available on the Zebra Developer Portal.
