Java.lang.illegalstateexception: Only fullscreen opaque activities can request orientation

Oreo orientation adjustments

When Oreo came into the picture, it implemented more stringent requirements for activity themes and orientation. Activities that are non-fullscreen or transparent are denied the capability to fix their orientation. To grant the orientation request, the activity should be both opaque and fullscreen.

Activity configurations for Oreo

Inspect your activity styles to comply with Oreo's fullscreen criteria. Avoid declaring android:windowIsTranslucent=true in your styles for Oreo. To establish your activity as opaque, configure android:windowIsTranslucent=false and android:windowIsFloating=false.

AsyncTask and Oreo

For those budding bakers out there using AsyncTask, Oreo threw a little unbaked dough in your recipe! Brush up on the nuances of executing background tasks associated with changes in Oreo, such as restrictions and best practices for background execution.

Setting requested orientation conditionally

For developers catering to Oreo's picky dietary restrictions while offering earlier versions their favourite snack:

if (Build.VERSION.SDK_INT < Build.VERSION_CODES.O) {
    // This chunk saves Oreo from incompatible orientation seasoning
    setRequestedOrientation(ActivityInfo.SCREEN_ORIENTATION_PORTRAIT);
}


This script helps to sidestep Oreo's displeasure while continuing to serve delectable orientation experiences to pre-Oreo guests — A perfect dinner party!

Themes' role in orientation

While setting themes in Oreo, android:theme=@style/Transparent is preferred for activities designed to be fullscreen and transparent, also don't forget to dress up your parent activity in full opaque attire when requesting an orientation dance— a minor touch to set the perfect ambiance!

Managing window input modes

Input modes at times act as unpredictable invitees to a party. You can tame them by setting android:windowSoftInputMode to stateHidden|adjustResize, maintaining a well-behaved gathering!

Verifying parent theme

Ensure your parent theme, preferably Theme.AppCompat.Light.NoActionBar, is consistent across versions. Like a good host, making everyone feel at home, even targeting API 28 and above.

Fullscreen activities and orientation requirements

For those inclined to serve transparency with a touch of fullscreen flavor, Oreo's table manners allow such activities to have a specified orientation. This ensures a smooth service despite being served with an IllegalStateException.

Understanding common issues

When hitting IllegalStateException

Despite rigid dance moves (unspecified orientation), if you confront the dreaded IllegalStateException, perhaps your activity prefers lucid walls (transparency) or the applied theme does not embrace fullscreen mode.

Managing device pivoting merriments

Though tempting to introduce android:screenOrientation="portrait" in the manifest, it's a healthier choice to manage device-orientation turmoils programmatically.

Accommodating multi-window mode

For those parties extending into the neighbors' yards (multi-window mode), remember, setRequestedOrientation may act as an unruly guest. Best advice, let your activity flex with the natural flow of orientation.

Navigating through threading and async tasks

On the brave quest of modern Android development, consider migrating from AsyncTask to Executor, HandlerThread, or Coroutines`— like shifting gear from the vintage horse-carriage to a self-driving supercar!