What is a software developing tool kit?
A software developing tool kit, also known-as our SDK, is a collection of tools, libraries, sample code, and documents that are provided when developing application programs for the specific platform or system. Developers can quickly integrate and use referring functions without writing codes from the very beginning, in which way they can greatly improve developing efficiency.
The main components of the SDK
Core Library: It provides pre-written code modules that implement certain functions, such as API interfaces and tools.
Document: It includes guidance of use, reference manuals, and sample codes to help developers understand and implement the functions provided by the SDK.
Developing tools: This module provide debugging tools, testing tools, simulators, or other convenient developing tools.
Sample Code: It provides actual code examples to show how to integrate the SDK into a developing project.
Configuration files: such as JSON, XML or required dependency files, which are used to correctly configure and launch the SDK.
The main purpose of the SDK
Integration of functions: SDK is usually used to simplify the integration of referring functions, such as payment, maps, advertisements, analysis and so on.
Cross-platform development: It provides support from referring platforms, such as Android, iOS, and Web Development.
Hardware Interface: SDK provided by device manufacturers can help developers control and read data from hardware devices, such as cameras and sensors.
Service extension: It is used to extend the functions of certain services, such as third-party push services and voice recognition services.
Developers’ most frequently used SDK
1.Google Maps SDK
Domain: Maps and Locating Function: It provides map display, path planning, geo-fencing, real time traffic and other functions. Advantage: The map data covers globally and supports high-precision locating.
Scenarios of Usage: logistics, navigation applications and shared travelling services.
2. Castar SDK
Domain: Application Monetization
Functions: It helps developers monetize applications, maximize application profitability and easily earn money without disturbing users.
Advantages: easy to integrate, support mobile applications, desktop applications and other multi-terminal devices.
Scenarios of Usage: games, tools, and other applications that in need of monetization.
3. OneSignal SDK
Domain: Push Notifications.
Features: It provides a cross-platform push notification service that supports push in groups and personalized notifications.
Benefits: The free plan function is powerful and supports sophisticated users’ grouping and analysis.
Scenarios of Usage: message notification and marketing push of mobile applications.
4. Firebase SDK
Domain: backend as a Service (BaaS).
Features: It supports real-time database, cloud storage, authentication and cloud message push (FCM).
Advantages: support from Cross-platform, easy to achieve real-time update and push function.
Scenarios of Usage: Quickly build back-end services or enhance functions of application.
5. Mixpanel SDK
Field: Data Analysis
Features: Track users’ activities and generate real time analysis reports.
Benefits: It can explore and analyze users deeply and integrate in an easy-to-use method.
Scenarios of Usage: optimization of products and marketing data analysis.
6. Twilio SDK
Field: Communication Services.
Function: It provides voice, SMS, video call and real-time chatting functions.
Advantage: Its global coverage and it supports various communication scenarios.
Scenarios of Usage: online customer service, notification services and real-time collaboration tools.
Selecting an appropriate SDK enables you to obviously shorten the developing time and quickly integrate diverse functions to enhance the customers’ satisfaction.
For example, tools like the Castar SDK are easy to integrate. Meanwhile, they enable developers earn money through application monetization solutions and comprehensively enhance the business value of their applications.
