When should you use WorkManager in Android development?

WorkManager is an Android library that is part of the Android Jetpack suite and is primarily used for scheduled, guaranteed background work. It is suitable for tasks that need to be executed reliably, even if the app is not running, or the device reboots.

When to Use WorkManager

  • Deferred Work: When you need to perform work that is non-immediate, for example, uploading logs or syncing data at regular intervals.
  • Persistent Work: Use WorkManager when your tasks should continue processing even after the app has been closed or the device restarted.
  • Constraints: When you want to set specific conditions, like requiring the device to be charging, connected to a network, or having adequate device storage.
  • Work Chaining: When tasks need to be executed in a specified order, WorkManager allows chaining of multiple work requests.
  • API Compatibility: WorkManager is compatible with a wide range of API levels, making it versatile for apps supporting older Android versions.

Example

Here's a simple example of how to set up a WorkManager task:

import android.content.Context;
import androidx.work.WorkManager;
import androidx.work.OneTimeWorkRequest;
import androidx.work.Worker;
import androidx.work.WorkerParameters;
class MyWorker extends Worker {
public MyWorker(Context context, WorkerParameters params) {
super(context, params);
}
@Override
public Result doWork() {
// Your background task code here
return Result.success();
}
}
public void scheduleWork(Context context) {
OneTimeWorkRequest workRequest = new OneTimeWorkRequest.Builder(MyWorker.class).build();
WorkManager.getInstance(context).enqueue(workRequest);
}

WorkManager Android Development Background Tasks Deferred Work Persistent Work API Compatibility