When developing Android applications that require native code, developers often face a choice between two build systems: CMake and NDK-Build. While both tools have their strengths, mixing them within the same project can lead to several pitfalls that may hinder productivity and cause unnecessary complications.
One of the primary issues encountered when integrating CMake and NDK-Build is the lack of seamless interoperability between the two systems. Gradle, the build system used by Android Studio, allows for either CMake or NDK-Build but does not support a direct mix of both in a single .gradle or multi-project build effectively . This limitation means that if you attempt to use both systems simultaneously, you might run into problems where dependencies do not fire correctly, leading to potential build failures or unexpected behavior.
Another significant pitfall involves managing intermodule dependencies. When using external projects, Android Studio may not correctly detect ndk-build files for code sniffing, which can result in incorrect indexing and loss of features like code completion and navigation. This issue becomes particularly problematic when trying to establish a dependency graph where one module relies on another built with a different system .
Moreover, handling licenses for packages required during the build process can become cumbersome. If you’re using CMake and some packages are not preinstalled, you must ensure that the necessary licenses are provided. Failure to do so can result in build errors or legal issues down the line .
Additionally, there’s the challenge of locating essential headers and libraries. Developers might encounter situations where CMake fails to find basic NDK headers, causing compilation to fail. This problem typically arises from misconfigurations or misunderstandings about how the NDK integrates with CMake .
To avoid these pitfalls, it’s advisable to choose one build system and stick with it throughout the project lifecycle. If your project already uses NDK-Build, consider whether the benefits of switching to CMake justify the effort required to migrate. Conversely, if starting a new project with minimal C++ code, CMake might be a better fit due to its integration with Android Studio and the broader ecosystem of C++ development tools.
In summary, while both CMake and NDK-Build serve the purpose of building native code for Android, attempting to use them together can introduce complexities that are best avoided. By selecting a single build system and adhering to it, developers can streamline their workflow and reduce the likelihood of encountering build-related issues.
