Android Studio Meerkat has introduced a wave of innovation for developers, particularly with its enhanced support for Kotlin Multiplatform (KMP). As the Android ecosystem evolves to meet modern development demands, tools like Android Studio Meerkat are leading the charge by simplifying cross-platform app development. In this blog post, we’ll explore what’s new in Android Studio Meerkat and how these features can empower developers working with Kotlin Multiplatform.
What’s New in Android Studio Meerkat?
One of the most exciting updates in Android Studio Meerkat is the introduction of a new shared module template specifically designed for Kotlin Multiplatform . This feature enables developers to seamlessly add a KMP module to existing projects, streamlining the process of sharing code between platforms such as Android and iOS. Whether you’re starting from scratch or integrating into an existing project, the updated templates make it easier than ever to adopt Kotlin Multiplatform.
In addition to improved KMP support, Android Studio Meerkat also enhances integration with Gemini through features like the Gemini Prompt Library, which was highlighted during the Google I/O 2025 announcements . These improvements help developers write more efficient and intelligent code, reducing repetitive tasks and boosting productivity.
Why Kotlin Multiplatform Matters
Kotlin Multiplatform Mobile (KMM) is transforming mobile development by allowing developers to share business logic across Android and iOS platforms, significantly reducing the time and effort required to maintain separate codebases . With Android Studio Meerkat, setting up a KMP environment has become even more intuitive. Developers can now open Xcode projects directly from Android Studio, further bridging the gap between the two ecosystems .
The ability to reuse code not only speeds up development but also reduces the likelihood of inconsistencies across platforms. By leveraging shared modules, teams can ensure that core functionalities behave identically on both Android and iOS, while still maintaining native UIs tailored to each platform.
How to Get Started with Kotlin Multiplatform in Meerkat
Getting started with Kotlin Multiplatform in Android Studio Meerkat is straightforward:
- Set Up Your Environment: Ensure your Android Studio is updated to the latest Meerkat version.
- Create a New Module: Use the built-in templates to create a new Kotlin Multiplatform Module. Simply navigate to the Project view, select New, and choose Kotlin Multiplatform Module .
- Choose the Shared Module Type: When prompted, opt for the Shared Module type to begin building reusable components.
- Integrate with iOS: If targeting iOS, Android Studio Meerkat allows you to open and manage Xcode projects directly within the IDE .
These steps provide a solid foundation for developers looking to harness the power of Kotlin Multiplatform without sacrificing the native experience.
Conclusion
Android Studio Meerkat represents a major leap forward in Android development tools, especially for those embracing Kotlin Multiplatform. With new module templates, seamless iOS integration, and enhanced AI-powered coding tools like Gemini, Meerkat empowers developers to build smarter, faster, and more efficiently across platforms. Whether you’re a seasoned Android developer or expanding into iOS development, Meerkat’s robust tooling makes it the perfect companion for modern, cross-platform app development.
If you haven’t already, now is the time to update to Android Studio Meerkat and start exploring the future of multiplatform development with Kotlin.