Kotlin Multiplatform is a powerful tool for software developers that allows them to write code once and target multiple platforms. The feature, which was released in 2017 with Kotlin 1.2, is based on the “write once, run anywhere” approach but takes it to a whole new level by enabling developers to include other platforms like Linux, Windows, and the web (JavaScript).
With Kotlin Multiplatform, developers can write business logic code for iOS and Android from a single codebase, which can save a lot of time and effort. In this article, we will take a closer look at Kotlin Multiplatform, its features, and how it can be used to improve the development process. We will also discuss some of the companies that are already using Kotlin Multiplatform in their development process and explore the benefits that they are seeing. If you’re a software developer, you won’t want to miss this comprehensive guide on Kotlin Multiplatform.
I. How Does Kotlin Multiplatform Work?
Kotlin Multiplatform works by using a technique called “Kotlin Common Code”. This is a set of libraries and modules that can be shared across multiple platforms. Developers write their code using these libraries and modules, and the resulting code can be run on different platforms without modification.
II. Kotlin Common Code
Kotlin Common Code is a set of libraries and modules that are shared across multiple platforms. These libraries and modules provide a common interface for developers to write their code. They also provide a set of tools for interacting with the underlying platform, such as APIs for accessing platform-specific features.
III. How Does Multiplatform Differ From Cross Platform?
Cross-platform development typically refers to writing code that can be compiled to run on different platforms. This often involves writing code in one language and then using a compiler to convert it to a different language that can be run on the target platform.
Kotlin Multiplatform, on the other hand, is a way of sharing code between platforms without the need for compilation. This allows developers to write code once and run it on multiple platforms without modification. It also allows for the use of platform-specific features without the need for a separate codebase.
IV. Advantages of Kotlin Multiplatform
Kotlin Multiplatform offers several advantages over traditional cross-platform development. The main advantage is that it allows developers to write code once and run it on multiple platforms without modification. This reduces development time and costs, and allows for greater consistency across platforms. It also allows for the use of platform-specific features without the need for a separate codebase. Additionally, it also offers more flexibility and scalability, as well as better maintainability, as the common code can be updated and shared across all platforms.
V. Companies using Kotlin Multiplatform
Many companies have recognized the benefits of Kotlin Multiplatform and have started to adopt it in their development processes. Some of the most notable companies that are using Kotlin Multiplatform include:
- Airbnb: The popular vacation rental platform has been using Kotlin Multiplatform to develop its mobile applications. Airbnb has been able to use the same codebase for both iOS and Android, which has saved them a significant amount of time and effort.
- Evernote: The popular note-taking app has also adopted Kotlin Multiplatform in its development process. Evernote has been able to use the same codebase for both iOS and Android, which has allowed them to save a lot of time and effort.
- Trello: The popular project management app has also adopted Kotlin Multiplatform in its development process. Trello has been able to use the same codebase for both iOS and Android, which has allowed them to save a lot of time and effort.
- Gradle: The popular build automation tool has also adopted Kotlin Multiplatform in its development process. Gradle has been able to use the same codebase for different platforms, which has allowed them to save a lot of time and effort.
- Corda: The popular blockchain platform has also adopted Kotlin Multiplatform in its development process. Corda has been able to use the same codebase for different platforms, which has allowed them to save a lot of time and effort.
These are just a few examples of the many companies that are using Kotlin Multiplatform in their development process. The benefits of Kotlin Multiplatform are clear: it allows developers to write code once and target multiple platforms, which can save a lot of time and effort. As more and more companies adopt Kotlin Multiplatform, it is likely that we will see even more benefits in the future.