Android App Interface: Best Practices and Guidelines
Users have plenty of choice nowadays for apps. That means that most users will be ruthless when walking away from an app, as studies repeatedly demonstrate.
You must follow best practices to make an Android app that stands the test of time. That way, you’ll deliver an app that’s usable, beautiful and with lots of valuable functions. Read on to learn more.
Android Development: Key Concepts
Android’s central design principle is about building user-friendly interfaces. Android apps should be clear, intuitive, and consistent in design.
Android borrows from Google’s design language, called Material Design. This language talks about consistent design styles.
These help users understand the hierarchy and flow of an app without needing instruction. For example, users should instinctively know where to find the main menu or back button.
UI Design for an Android App: Balancing Looks and Functionality
All successful Android app designs do a great job of balancing looks with functionality. Your app must look stylish but work as expected.
The look and feel begins by creating visually appealing layouts and a colour scheme to match your brand.
The functionality ensures the app does what the user expects without delay or confusion. It also covers other vital aspects, such as your Android app security.
An important design principle is ensuring your app balances both worlds without one side dominating.
Use the Best App Development Tools to Make an Android App
You need the proper app development framework for Android to build an exceptional app. So, your choice of app builder tools is fundamental. You can use Android Studio, for example.
This tool has a selection of templates and design tools to help you build an app that aligns with best practices.
Our Builder.ai platform is another way to create an app that reflects current design and development principles.
Your choice will depend on your development speed, team experience, and Android UI design preferences.
Key Elements of an Android App Interface
When building your app, it’s worth checking off a list of items you need to achieve the perfect Android UX design. Here are some features to add to your checklist.
- Colours should reflect your brand
- Colours must also look harmonious and help guide users
- You should use clear fonts that are easy to read
- Use familiar icons to help users transition from one part of the app to another
- Animations between transitions will help create a flow
- Use logical navigation that is in line with what users expect
Ensuring your app has these features will increase the chance users stick with you. That’s important for your long-term success.
Testing Your Interface
Always get some beta users to test your interface. That is best practice, and it will increase your odds of success. You may have a feature in your interface that seems intuitive, yet it appears confusing to end users.
Focus on Best Practice for a Successful App Development
It’s tempting to be creative and want to reinvent the wheel with your latest app design. But put that temptation aside and adhere to best practices instead. It’s what users expect, and it’s what will keep them returning.