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# Ruby on Android

In this video, Nick Howard discusses the integration of Ruby and Ruby-like tools within the Android development environment during the Rocky Mountain Ruby 2012 event.

## Key Points:
- **Setting Up Ruby on Android**: 
  - To start using Ruby on Android, one must first install the Android SDK, which allows for the running of an emulator and packaging apps. 
  - A tool named **Roboto**, a modified version of JRuby for Android, enables the creation of Ruby applications.

- **Use of Gems**: 
  - Developers need to install a specific gem that manages the build process. This gem does not run tests but packages JRuby with the application to target specific Android versions and packages.

- **Android Activities**: 
  - An Android app is composed of activities, which can be likened to web app pages, containing elements like buttons. 
  - A basic example involves an activity displaying “Mr. Roboto” and including a button to change text.

- **Introduction to Mirro**: 
  - **Mirro**, another project mentioned, compiles directly to JVM bytecode, resembling Ruby but using Java’s object model. 
  - Mirro simplifies coding with a framework to create Android applications; developers provide type information for the compiler to better understand the code.

- **Example Projects**: 
  - Nick illustrates how to create an Android game app. For example, a **Sudoku game** and a simple game called **Guess My Number**, where players guess a randomly generated number with hints provided upon their guesses.

- **User Interface Development**: 
  - While the UI developed using these tools may not match RubyMotion's polish, there is a DSL available for UI building. 
  - He mentions an app that allows running Ruby code on Android devices, along with an IRB app for on-the-go calculations.

## Conclusion:
This session highlights how Ruby can be adapted for Android development through tools like Roboto and Mirro, demonstrating that developers can utilize familiar Ruby syntax while addressing platform-specific requirements. Nick provides insights into creating functional apps and encourages experimentation with Ruby on Android tools while considering their advantages and constraints.

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