92: Background Tasks can be Shiny
In this episode, Jon and Allan discuss backgrounding in mobile development. They start by reviewing the virtual list view and how it solved Allan's problem. Then, Jon reveals the story behind his nickname 'Red.' The conversation then shifts to backgrounding in mobile development, covering common scenarios such as data synchronization, image uploads, and real-time GPS. They explore the different approaches to backgrounding on Android and iOS, including the use of services, broadcast receivers, foreground services, and job scheduling. Finally, they discuss background transfers on both platforms. This episode explores background transfers, background tasks, and code execution in mobile apps. The hosts discuss the challenges of handling slow APIs, managing state in background jobs, and scheduling one-off and periodic jobs. They also delve into the intricacies of background GPS in iOS and Android, as well as the considerations for background tasks in Windows. The episode concludes with a brief mention of background tasks in CarPlay and Android Auto.
Takeaways
Backgrounding in mobile development is the ability to execute code when an app is not in the foreground.
Common scenarios for backgrounding include data synchronization, image uploads, and real-time GPS.
On Android, backgrounding can be achieved using services, broadcast receivers, foreground services, and job scheduling.
On iOS, backgrounding is more restricted, with foreground services and background transfers being the primary options.
Developers should consider the specific platform guidelines and limitations when implementing backgrounding functionality. Background transfers are useful for uploading or downloading large files or data sets.
Managing state in background jobs can be challenging, but there are various ways to handle it, such as using preferences or messaging frameworks.
Background GPS in iOS and Android allows for tracking location and other data, but it should be used judiciously to avoid excessive battery drain.
Background tasks in Windows can be achieved using WinRT APIs, but they may be less relevant in desktop scenarios.
Consider the specific use case and user needs before implementing background tasks, and be mindful of the impact on battery life and data usage.
People
Hosts: Jon Dick, Allan Ritchie
Audio Engineer: Jim Heath
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Virtual List View
05:28 The Story Behind the Nickname 'Red'
08:50 Backgrounding in Mobile Development
19:21 Backgrounding on Android
27:45 Backgrounding on iOS
30:31 Background Transfers on Android
31:55 Background Transfers on iOS
32:42 Background Transfers
33:45 Handling Slow APIs
34:38 Background Tasks in iOS 13
36:46 Managing State in Background Jobs
37:45 One-Off and Scheduled Jobs
40:20 Background Execution in iOS
41:36 Passing State to Background Jobs
44:22 Challenges of Data Synchronization
45:45 Background Execution in Windows
46:19 Background GPS in iOS
47:39 Background GPS in Android
51:53 Considerations for Background Tasks
55:12 Background Tasks in CarPlay and Android Auto
