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Discover how to effectively add `Flutter functionality` as a dependency in your Android library, ensuring seamless integration with your Flutter plugin.
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Add Flutter Functionality as a Dependency in an Android Library

If you’re developing a Flutter package that requires native functionality through Android, you might encounter a challenge: how to add Flutter's capabilities as a dependency in your Android library. This guide aims to guide you through the steps required to implement this functionality within your project. We'll ensure that you have the right tools at your disposal to create a smooth interaction between Flutter and your Android code.

The Problem

When creating a Flutter plugin that utilizes native Android code through a MethodCallHandler, you may want to keep this code in a separate AAR (Android Archive) file. This setup not only helps in maintaining clean code but also allows for easier updates and modifications.

Here’s a basic structure of what your Kotlin implementation might look like:

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In this example, MySeparateMethodCallHandler, which you've created, is located outside the standard plugin/android directory and is included as a Gradle dependency. However, some of the essential Flutter classes, such as MethodCallHandler, may not be accessible directly in this new library, leading to integration issues.

How Do Other Frameworks Handle This?

Other frameworks like React Native and Unity offer solutions that simplify the process:

React Native: You can add com.facebook.react:react-native:+ as a compileOnly dependency to get the necessary React Native classes.

Unity: The unity.jar file can be included as compileOnly, providing access to Unity's native code.

Finding a Solution for Flutter

To add Flutter's functionality as a dependency in your Android library, follow these organized steps:

Step 1: Add Remote Repositories

First, you need to include the Flutter repository in your build.gradle file. Open your build.gradle file and add the following code under repositories:

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Step 2: Add Flutter as a Dependency

Next, you’ll need to state the dependency required to access Flutter classes. Still in the build.gradle file of your module, add:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Important Note

The keyword compileOnly is crucial here. It prevents the duplication of classes since the Flutter application that uses your plugin will provide the necessary Flutter classes itself.

What’s That Version Number?

You might wonder what the string 0fdb562ac8068ce3dda6b69aca3f355f4d1d2718 represents. This is the specific engine version, which should match the version of Flutter you're using to develop your plugin.

Accessing Flutter Classes

By completing these steps, your code will now have access to essential Flutter classes like MethodChannel, MethodChannel.Result, and more. This access will enable your Flutter plugins to communicate effectively with the native Android code.

Bonus Tip: Identifying Your Flutter Engine Version

You may need to ensure that the engine version aligns with the one used during your plugin's development. Here’s how you can determine this version easily using Android Studio:

Open the project/example/android of your plugin in Android Studio (with the Flutter plugin activated).

Run the Gradle task gradle plugin_name:dependencies and search for phrases like flutter_embedding_ in the output.

By following this guide, you should now be equipped to properly integrate Flutter functionality into your Android library. This approach aids in reducing complexity and ensures your plugin works harmoniously with Flutter's native framework.