Step Counter App

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 ANDROID STUDIO

Android Studio is an integrated development environment (IDE) for the Google Android
Operating System. It is built based on JetBrains’ IntelliJ IDEA Community Edition, and it is
specifically designed for creating applications on Android devices. Some of the key features of
Android Studio are as follows:
• Instant Run – a feature that pushes code and resource changes to the running app. It allows
changes to be made to the app without the need to restart the app, or rebuilding the APK, so that
the effects can be seen instantly.
• An Emulator – a virtual android device that can simulate a variety of hardware features such as
GPS location, network latency, motion sensors, and multi-touch input that can be used to run and
install the app. It can then be used for testing purposes.
• Testing Tools and Frameworks – extensive testing tools such as JUnit 4 and functional UI test
frameworks are included with Android Studio. Espresso Test Recorder can generate UI test code
by recording the developer’s interactions with the app on a device or emulator. The tests can be
run on a device, an emulator, in a Firebase Test Lab, or on a continuous integration environment.

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1.1.1 ARCHITECTURE OF ANDROID STUDIO

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Fig 1.1.1 : Architecture of Android Studio

1.1.2 Installing and Running Applications on Android Studio

1.1.2.1 System Requirements

Operating System:
• Microsoft Windows 7/8/10 (64-bit)
• macOS 10.10 (Yosemite) or higher
• Linux (Any recent distribution that supports Gnome or KDE)

Disk Space:
• Minimum 4 GB of available disk space
• Additional space for Android SDK, emulator system images, and caches

RAM:
• Minimum 8 GB of RAM, but 16 GB or more is recommended for smooth performance

CPU:
• 64-bit processor
• Intel Core i3 or higher (recommended)

Screen Resolution:
• 1280 x 800 or higher screen resolution

Java Development Kit (JDK):

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• Android Studio requires a compatible version of the Java Development Kit (JDK) to be installed.
The latest version of Android Studio usually includes a bundled version of the JDK, but you can
also install it separately.

Internet Connectivity:
• Internet access is required to download necessary files and updates during the installation process .

1.1.2.2 Setup Android Studio

To set up Android Studio for installing and running applications, follow these steps:

1. Download and Install Android Studio:

• Go to the official Android Studio website (https://developer.android.com/studio) and click on the
"Download" button.
• Choose the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux) and
click "Download."
• Once the download is complete, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install
Android Studio on your computer.

2. Configure Android SDK:

• -After installing Android Studio, launch the application.
• You will be prompted to import settings from a previous installation. If you have no previous
installation, choose the "Do not import settings" option and click "OK."
• On the "Welcome to Android Studio" screen, click on "Configure" and select "SDK Manager."
• In the SDK Manager, you can select the Android SDK platforms and tools you want to install. By
default, the latest stable version will be selected. Choose the desired SDK versions and click
"Apply" to start the installation. Make sure to select the SDKs that match your target audience
and minimum SDK requirements for your application.

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• Wait for the SDK components to download and install. This process may take some time
depending on your internet connection.

3. Set up an Android Virtual Device (AVD):

• Once the SDK installation is complete, click on the "AVD Manager" icon on the toolbar or go to
"Tools" > "AVD Manager."
• Click on "Create Virtual Device."
• Choose a device definition that matches your testing requirements and "Next."

• Select a system image for the virtual device. It's recommended to choose the image with the latest
API level. Click "Next."

• Configure any additional settings for the virtual device, such as RAM and storage, or leave them
as default. Click "Finish" to create the virtual device.

4. Create a New Project:

• In the Android Studio welcome screen, click on "Start a new Android Studio project" or select
"File" > "New" > "New Project."
• Follow the project creation wizard, which involves selecting the project template, providing a
name for your application, choosing the package name, and selecting the minimum SDK version.
• Customize the project settings as needed and click "Finish" to create the project.

5. Build and Run the Application:

• Once your project is created, you will see the project structure and various files in the Android
Studio editor.
• Connect a physical Android device to your computer or select the virtual device you created
earlier in the AVD Manager.
• Click on the "Run" button in the toolbar or select "Run" > "Run 'app'" to build and deploy your
application on the selected device.
• Android Studio will compile your code, package the APK, and install it on the device. You can
monitor the progress in the "Run" window.
• Once the installation is complete, your application will launch on the device, and you can test its
functionality.

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1.1.2.3 Create Android Virtual Device

To create an Android Virtual Device (AVD) in Android Studio for installing and running
applications, follow these steps:
1. Launch Android Studio and open your project.

2. Click on the "AVD Manager" icon in the toolbar, or go to "Tools" > "AVD Manager."

3. In the AVD Manager window, click on the "Create Virtual Device" button.

4. Select a device definition:

• Choose a device category on the left, such as Phone or Tablet.
• Select a device definition that matches the specifications of the virtual device you want to create.
For example, you can choose a Pixel 4 device definition.

5. Click "Next" to proceed

6. Select a system image:

• Choose a recommended system image, which is typically the latest stable version.
• Select the API level you want to target (e.g., Android 12).

• Click "Next."

7. Configure the virtual device:

• You can customize the virtual device's name, orientation, and additional hardware properties like
RAM and storage.
• Ensure that the specifications match your application requirements. • Click "Finish" to create the
virtual device

8. To launch the virtual device, click the green "Play" button in the Actions column.

9. Wait for the virtual device to start up. This process may take some time.

10. Once the virtual device is ready, you can deploy and test your application on it.

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1.2 INTRODUCTION
Step counter apps, also known as pedometer apps, have gained significant popularity as an
effective tool for tracking and monitoring physical activity levels. These apps utilize the sensors
present in smartphones to count the number of steps taken by the user throughout the day.
However, step counting is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the features offered by
modern step counter apps. In this introduction, we will explore some of the key features that make
step counter apps valuable tools for promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.

1. Step Counting:
The fundamental feature of a step counter app is, of course, the ability to accurately count and
display the number of steps taken by the user. By leveraging the smartphone's built-in sensors, such
as the accelerometer or gyroscope, the app provides real-time step count updates, helping users
stay aware of their activity levels and encouraging them to meet their daily step goals.

2. Distance Tracking:
Many step counter apps offer the ability to track the distance covered during physical activity. By
combining step count data with user-specific information, such as stride length, these apps estimate
the distance travelled. Distance tracking is particularly useful for individuals engaged in activities
such as walking, jogging, or running, as it provides a tangible metric for progress and goal setting.

3. Calorie Estimation:

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To provide a more comprehensive understanding of physical activity, step counter apps often
incorporate calorie estimation. By taking into account factors such as step count, distance travelled,
user weight, and activity intensity, the app calculates an estimate of the calories burned during the
day. This information can be invaluable for individuals looking to manage their weight or maintain
a balanced diet.

4. Goal Setting and Progress Tracking:

Step counter apps allow users to set personalized goals based on their desired level of activity.
Whether it's a daily step target, distance goal, or calorie burn objective, these apps provide a
platform for users to define and track their progress towards these goals. Clear visualizations and
progress indicators help users stay motivated and engaged, as they can see their achievements and
monitor their overall improvement over time.
5. Historical Data and Trends:
Step counter apps often provide a historical log of activity data, allowing users to review their past
performance and analyze trends. These apps may include features like daily, weekly, or monthly
summaries, charts, and graphs to visualize step counts, distances covered, and calories burned over
time. By examining these trends, users can identify patterns, make adjustments to their routine, and
make informed decisions regarding their fitness goals.

6. Integration with Health Platforms:

To provide a more holistic view of overall health and fitness, many step counter apps integrate with
other health platforms and wearable devices. Integration with platforms like Google Fit or Apple
Health allows users to synchronize their step count data and consolidate it with other health
metrics, such as heart rate, sleep patterns, or nutrition information. This integration offers users a
centralized hub for tracking and analysing their health data.

7.Automatic Report Generation

The individual history status gets added to the report The report is precisely designed to get the
daily monthly updates .It includes total steps taken ,calorie burnt, distance covered in terms of Km
.The top part of the Achievements shows the levels to be achieved, starting with the level
8.Designed specifically for fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals, this step counter
app offers a comprehensive range of features to support their active lifestyle and help them achieve
their fitness goals. With its advanced tracking capabilities, goal-oriented features, and integration

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with other health platforms, this app is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of fitness
freaks who are passionate about maintaining an optimal level of physical activity and well-being.
From precise step counting and distance tracking to calorie estimation and progress visualization,
this app is a powerful tool that empowers fitness enthusiasts to stay motivated, monitor their
achievements, and engage with a community of like-minded individuals who share their dedication
to leading a healthy and active life.

In conclusion, step counter apps offer a wide range of features beyond simple step counting. By
incorporating distance tracking, calorie estimation, goal setting, progress tracking, historical data
analysis, integration with health platforms, and social sharing, these apps provide a comprehensive
solution for individuals looking to lead an active and healthy lifestyle.

1.3 HISTORY

The history of step counter apps can be traced back to the increasing awareness of the importance
of physical activity and the growing popularity of fitness tracking. Sedentary lifestyles and lack
of regular exercise have been linked to various health issues, including obesity, cardiovascular
diseases, and diabetes. In response to these concerns, step counter apps have emerged as tools to
encourage individuals to adopt a more active lifestyle and track their daily physical activity
levels. The development of step counter apps became more feasible with the advancements in
mobile technology and the integration of sensors in smartphones and wearable devices. This
proved the way for the creation of apps that utilize these sensors to provide step tracking and
related features. The popularity of step counter apps can also be attributed to the rise of
smartphone usage and the increasing availability of health and fitness applications. Step counter
apps leverage this trend by offering a convenient and accessible way to monitor physical activity
levels without the need for dedicated fitness tracking devices.

1.4 OBJECTIVES

Step counter application mainly focuses to achieve the following objectives:

 To encourage users to take few extra steps everyday.

 To promote user friendly step counter app to the user.

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 To set the step count goal and to follow it.

 To compare the past progress and try to improvise everyday.

 To develop a personnel challenge to sustain a healthy and active lifestyle.

1.5 IMPORTANT FEATURES

1. Incorporating Search Feature

Incorporate the advanced search feature for mobile app users that helps them find and scour for the
content they need. This adds a huge impact, especially if the app has a vast database of content; it
quickly becomes cumbersome for users to access easily. With the advanced search feature and the
search box, top-tier apps allow users to search for relevant content with the help of keywords and
key phrases. The search feature makes the app content accessible to all kinds of users.

2. Incorporate Social Media Integration

Social media sharing is not restricted to picture sharing anymore. Most apps now include social
media integration so that users can communicate and collaborate with other people, irrespective of
whether they have the same app or not. App owners also reap the advantage of having social
media on their apps since more users sharing their stuff will, in turn, impact their reach and growth
positively Making social media integration seamless is the key here with social sharing buttons
directly at the side of every app page.

3. Use of Responsive App Design

Mobile app design based on every screen size and resolution is quite robust. Responsive app
design resolves this problem helping the app acclimatize to any screen size and resolution of small
smartphones as well as larger tablets. Some smartphones also feature screens that hover around the

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size of a tablet. Check out the newest iPhones and its competitors in the market; they are large
enough to be called mini-tablets. By incorporating responsive app design during app development,

users will experience the app in the best light irrespective of the device they are using.

4. Simplicity in Design with Uncluttered Elements

The mobile app design has now evolved into a smart aesthetic exercise where proper use of white
space is quite essential. Irrespective of the logic complexity of the app, the user experience design
is expected to be uncluttered and straightforward with the elements placed in proper context,
space, and size. Mobile app users are always keen to use apps that are easy to-use and can be
navigated without a problem. This is where a simple UI/UX design can help companies describe
the navigation structure, workflow, and principles of the app succinctly to its intended audience.
5. Compliance with GDPR Standards

GDPR or the General Data Protection Regulations aim to protect the personal data of EU
residents. So if your app is targeted for users living within EU member states, it is advisable to get
the app compliant to GDPR standards. Every bit of software needs to process personal user data
with utmost privacy and security so that it is compliant with regulatory requirements. It is
advisable to eliminate any app feature and solution that could impede the compliance measures

1.6 ADVANTAGE OF ANDROID

Android, as a mobile operating system, offers several advantages that contribute to its widespread
popularity and success. Here are some key advantages of Android:

Open Source: Android is an open-source platform, meaning its source code is freely available to
developers. This encourages innovation, collaboration, and customization, leading to a vast
ecosystem of apps, custom ROMs, and device variations. It also allows manufacturers to modify
the Android OS to suit their hardware and differentiate their devices.

Market Share and Device Availability: Android has the largest market share in the mobile
operating system space, making it a dominant platform globally. This popularity translates into a
wide range of Android devices available at various price points, giving users a plethora of options
to choose from to meet their needs and budgets.

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Customizability and Flexibility: Android offers extensive customizability and flexibility to users.
Users can personalize their home screens, install custom launchers, widgets, and icon packs, and
customize settings to tailor the user experience according to their preferences. Android also
supports system-wide themes, allowing users to change the overall look and feel of their devices.

Device Integration and Connectivity: Android devices offer seamless integration with other
devices and platforms. They support various connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and
USB, enabling easy file sharing, device pairing, and connectivity with other devices such as smart
TVs, wearables, and IoT devices.

Multi-Tasking and Productivity: Android supports multi-tasking, allowing users to run multiple
apps simultaneously, switch between them effortlessly, and perform tasks more efficiently.
Features like split-screen mode, picture-in-picture, and app shortcuts enhance productivity and
multitasking capabilities.

Developer-Friendly Platform: Android provides comprehensive development tools,

documentation, and resources for app developers. The Android SDK (Software Development Kit)
and Android Studio IDE (Integrated Development Environment) offer robust tools for building,
testing, and debugging Android applications. The platform's openness and developer friendly
nature encourage innovation and a thriving developer community.

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