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What is the Android Runtime (ART)?
The Android Runtime (ART) is the managed runtime environment introduced by Google in Android 4.4 (KitKat) as a replacement for the earlier Dalvik Virtual Machine (DVM). It is responsible for executing applications on Android devices.
Unlike the DVM, which used Just-In-Time (JIT) compilation, ART utilizes Ahead-Of-Time (AOT) compilation. This means that instead of compiling code at runtime, ART compiles the code during the installation of the application. The compiled code is stored in a native binary format, which allows for faster and more efficient execution.
Evolution of ART
ART has evolved significantly since its introduction. In earlier versions of Android, such as KitKat and Lollipop, ART operated in a hybrid mode, where certain parts of the application were interpreted at runtime, while others were pre-compiled. This provided a balance between performance and installation time.
With the release of Android 7.0 (Nougat), ART switched to a fully Ahead-Of-Time compilation approach. This change introduced a faster and more consistent execution environment, as the entire application code was pre-compiled before installation. It reduced the need for runtime interpretation, resulting in improved app performance.
The next major update came with Android 8.0 (Oreo), where ART implemented various performance optimizations. These optimizations aimed to reduce the app startup time and enhance resource consumption. With the inclusion of features like profile-guided optimization and improved garbage collection, ART improved the overall responsiveness and efficiency of Android applications.
Performance of ART
The introduction of ART and its constant evolution has had a substantial impact on the performance of Android applications. By compiling code ahead of time, ART eliminates the need for JIT compilation and reduces the overhead associated with it. This results in faster application startup times and smoother user experience.
Moreover, ART’s ability to optimize code during installation allows for efficient memory management. The use of native binaries improves the execution speed, reducing resource consumption and enhancing battery life. The improvements brought about by ART have made resource-intensive applications, such as games and multimedia apps, perform significantly better on Android devices.
In conclusion, the Android Runtime (ART) is a critical component of the Android operating system that plays a pivotal role in executing applications. Its evolution from the Dalvik Virtual Machine to the current Ahead-Of-Time compilation approach has significantly improved the performance and efficiency of Android applications. With continued optimizations, ART continues to enhance the overall user experience on Android devices.
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