Android - Prevent white screen at startup

Startup optimization strategies

In pursuit of a slick user experience, app launch optimization cannot be stressed enough. Employ background operations like Threads or Services to perform initializations without blocking the user interface. Here's a couple of Android aces you can sneak up your sleeves:

• AsyncTask: If AsyncTask had a LinkedIn profile, its skill would be "offloading tasks from the main thread". Use this class judiciously, they're a scarce resource! 😅
• Startup Library: It's like the starter's pistol for the race of app launch. Android's App Startup Library facilitates an efficient app starting sequence.
• Lifecycle-Aware Components: They're punctual, organised and efficient beyond belief. Use these for structured startup processes.

Transition and animation smoothing

At the onset of your activity's onCreate(), call setTheme(R.style.AppTheme) even before the super.onCreate(). This directs the seamless transition command to the max.

To maintain a smooth-sailing ship, use Android's ViewCompat.animate with a DecelerateInterpolator to make animations seem like they're sliding on butter. Below is an example:

@Override
protected void onCreate(Bundle savedInstanceState) {
    setTheme(R.style.AppTheme); // Fact: Themes are better than no themes
    super.onCreate(savedInstanceState);
    setContentView(R.layout.activity_main);

    // Make way for the king of animations
    View myView = findViewById(R.id.my_view);
    ViewCompat.animate(myView)
            .alpha(1)
            .setDuration(1000) // A thousand milliseconds in the life of an Android user...
            .setInterpolator(new DecelerateInterpolator())
            .start();
}
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Customization and control with themes

Dress up your activities by applying some mascara and lipstick, metaphorically! Dabbling with windowDisablePreview can grant full control of the startup visuals. You may consider exploring:

• Activity-specific themes: Consider a splash theme and main theme for varied activities.
• Setting the pace: Adjust animation durations for a comfortable user experience.
• Simplifying ActionBar: Try Theme.Holo.NoActionBar to eliminate unnecessary visual distractions at the splash screen stage.

Best practices and device compatibility

Embrace diversity: Test your app across multiple devices. Make the best of the Material Design guidelines to ensure consistent output. Emphasize on optimizing your app for various devices and Android versions. Lastly, 'slow and steady' may win races, but in app startups, speed matters!

Comprehensive splash screen implementation

While implementing your splash screens, remember that the user is waiting at the doorstep of your app. Make sure to optimize initializations and provide a swift and smooth entry. Verdict: Splashes need to be quick, attractive, and not a cover-up for a slow loading app.