The source code for all system applications are located at ANDROID_SRC/packages/. In this recipe, we will learn the significance of the most important packages at this location.
The following table summarizes the four top-level directories and the code they contain:
|
Directory name |
Purpose |
|---|---|
|
|
Contains code for Activity-based applications. Always contains a UI element. |
|
|
Random tools maintained by Googlers. Contents may be archived without notice. |
|
|
The sources for the three default IMEs (as per 2.3.4_r1), that is LatinIME, OpenWnn, and PinyinIME |
|
|
Code for all major content providers including Contacts and SMS/MMS |
|
|
Code for wallpapers that ship with the open source system |
Now, we will learn the purpose of the most important directories under Apps and Providers.
Directories under /Apps:
|
Directory name |
Purpose |
|---|---|
|
|
The frontend of the Android browser |
|
|
The camera app |
|
|
Frontend Contacts application |
|
|
Application that lets you view images and videos on your SD card |
|
|
The default launcher screen |
|
|
MMS/SMS application |
|
|
NFC control application including native library that interacts with NFC chip. Includes the NFC manager and Nfc service |
|
|
The dialer application and call-answering UI |
|
|
System settings and secure settings application |
Directories under /Providers:
|
Directory name |
Purpose |
|---|---|
|
|
Maintains a database of all installed applications |
|
|
Code that maintains the Contacts datastore that is used by innumerable services on the device |
|
|
Stores three types of data: SMS content, MMS content, and current network configuration |