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Android applications take 2 SDK versions into account: 'target SDK' and 'minimum sdk'. The target value allows you to use APIs up to that version but also uses
by sturmen 9y ago
Android applications take 2 SDK versions into account:
'target SDK' and 'minimum sdk'. The target value allows you to use APIs up to that version but also uses that version's toolchain, thereby enforcing any behavior changes or new requirements (in a backwards compatible fashion). Minimum SDK is just that: the absolute lowest Android version the app will run on.
A brand new blank slate app will be configured with a target SDK of 25 (latest Nougat) and a minimum SDK of 14 (Ice Cream Sandwich iirc). This means it will run on ancient devices but also be able to use the latest Nougat APIs (when available.) However, because it is targeting 23+ (6.0), it will force you to use runtime permission prompts and stuff.