“Most people are other people. Their thoughts are someone else’s opinions, their lives a mimicry, their passions a quotation.”
― Oscar Wilde, De Profundis
I love Android. Without it, my life feels incomplete. Starting in July, I’ll become a professional Android developer, turning my passion into a profession. For me, Android is more than just a mobile OS; it’s a way of life. Just as some people are dedicated followers of Apple, there are devoted Android enthusiasts, and I am proudly one of them, a self-confessed Google fanboy.
Everyone close to me knows this—my friend, my mom, and even my future colleagues. During my job interview, they asked about my passion for Android, and I explained it in great detail. My resume not only lists my work experience but also highlights my personal projects with Android, including rooting devices, unlocking bootloaders, and installing custom ROMs like LineageOS and Pixel Experience (which, regrettably, was discontinued, possibly due to pressure from Google).
To me, Android is my universe (metaphorically, not referring to Samsung Galaxy). It is a fundamental part of my tech universe. Without it, my tech ecosystem would be incomplete. Imagine the joy of interacting with a small screen that connects us to the world, or the satisfaction of developing an app and running it on your device. It’s an incredible experience.
My love for Android is undeniable. I have collected nearly sixty Bugdroid figures from Dead Zebra. Being an Android developer allows me to explore various interests, and collecting these figures is one of the joys. My job is my hobby, and Android makes that possible.
Reflecting on the past, I’ve always been a huge Google fan. I’ve admired everything they did: Google Earth, Google Maps, Chromebooks, and Google Glass. Many may not understand this passion, but that’s okay. Google’s products have often been underrated despite their potential to revolutionize the industry, such as Stadia.
I love Google’s experimental spirit. Google X was phenomenal. Unlike the corporate vibe of Microsoft or the sleekness of Apple, Google has its own unique style—experimental, fun, and geeky. My first phone was an Android, the Galaxy Nexus, and since then, I’ve always used Android phones, particularly the Nexus and Pixel series.
The customizability of Android always attracted me. Among the many launcher apps, some stand out. I used to prefer Nova Launcher, but after its acquisition by Branch, I switched to Niagara Launcher.
Niagara Launcher is what I recommend today. It’s unlike any other launcher—sleek and unique. Searching for apps is as simple as swiping from either edge of the screen with your thumb, effortlessly navigating through your apps alphabetically. It’s difficult to explain, but the entire Niagara experience is mind-blowing.
Here are some of my settings. Android all the way!!
