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What do I use now that Handler() is deprecated?

java
async-execution
handler-deprecation
concurrency-api
Alex KataevbyAlex Kataev·Sep 11, 2024
TLDR

Handler(Looper.getMainLooper()) is your go-to replacement for the deprecated Handler() when performing UI-related tasks. This ensures you're working on the main Looper leading to proper threading.

Handler uiHandler = new Handler(Looper.getMainLooper());

For background task execution, consider using Executor or HandlerThread, making sure to explicitly specify the Looper for efficient thread management.

Delay away

For tasks that needs to be processed after a delay, the postDelayed() method comes to rescue. Ensure to nest your Runnable code block inside this method.

uiHandler.postDelayed(new Runnable() { @Override public void run() { // put on your delayed operations here...don't be late! } }, 1000); // after the beep, it would be 1 second

Hello Looper my old friend

A specified Looper with Handler is a lifesaver. It provides the thread's message queue, barring your app from performing UI operations on a non-UI thread, preventing a swarm of runtime errors.

Executors- checkmate!

When non-UI tasks are the order of the play, Executor is your knight. Task execution on background gets a boost, as Executor carefully manages your threads:

Executor executor = Executors.newSingleThreadExecutor(); executor.execute(() -> { // Let's do some heavy-lifting...and it's not a gym session });

Once the dust has settled, shut down your executor. It's prim and proper to free up resources:

executor.shutdown(); // done for the day...this executor needs a break!

New wave of Java

To cruise through complex operations, look beyond and explore Java Concurrency API or take a leap to Kotlin coroutines for Kotlin-based Android.

Kotlin to the rescue

In Kotlin, coroutines excel at dealing with asynchronous tasks- sleek and efficient:

val scope = CoroutineScope(Dispatchers.Main) scope.launch { // don't be hasty - let's wait a bit delay(1000) // action time! Handle UI operations here }

No more NullPointerException

In Android fragments, safeguarding from NullPointerExceptions involves using requireContext() for properties that cannot be null, and Context?.let { ... } when null scenarios are plausible.

Context context = requireContext(); context?.let { Toast.makeText(it, "Message", Toast.LENGTH_SHORT).show(); // pop a toast...not the breakfast kind! };

Same thread dispatch

Use Looper.myLooper() when the Handler needs to be attached to the current thread:

Handler sameThreadHandler = new Handler(Looper.myLooper()); // when you and your Handler need to be on the same page!

Deprecation - an important red flag

It’s not just a friendly nudge, deprecation is a serious call to adopt best practices. It's crucial for maintaining your app's compatibility and performance.

Code quality matters

Attending to deprecation warnings is not just cleaning up, but essential part of keeping high-quality code. It keeps you updated with latest Android enhancements.

Changes in Handler

For latest changes in coding norms, always check on the Android Developers documentation. They provide an up-to-date guide to most clean and efficient approaches.

Multitasking made easy

When your tasks pile up and become queasy, it calls for a more efficient means of asynchronous execution. There comes WorkManager for tasks that are to be run in the background, even when your app is not running.