7 Best-Selling Android NDK Books Millions Trust

Discover Android NDK books authored by leading experts like Onur Cinar, Feipeng Liu, and Sergey Kosarevsky, offering best-selling, practical guides for native development

Updated on June 28, 2025
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There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love, especially in a complex field like Android NDK development. Android's Native Development Kit empowers developers to break past Java's limits, tapping into the performance of native C++ code. With Android apps demanding more speed and efficiency, these books gain traction by delivering proven techniques that have helped countless developers elevate their projects.

The authority behind these works speaks volumes. Authors like Onur Cinar and Sergey Kosarevsky bring decades of hands-on experience, crafting guides that don't just theorize but provide actionable insights. Their books delve deep into JNI, multithreading, graphics optimization, and more, reflecting expertise that resonates with developers worldwide.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific Android NDK needs might consider creating a personalized Android NDK book that combines these validated approaches. This way, you get a learning resource shaped precisely for your background, skills, and goals.

Best for advanced native developers
Pro Android C++ with the NDK stands out by guiding developers through the complexities of native Android development using C++. It builds on the Android platform’s native-code support, offering a rich tutorial and reference for sophisticated app creation. The book dives into JNI, native multithreading, and advanced debugging tools, anchored by a game app case study that brings practical context to its lessons. If your goal is to harness the full power of native code for better performing Android apps, this book offers a thorough framework to get there.
2012·440 pages·Android, Android NDK, Native Code, JNI, Debugging

What happens when deep C++ expertise intersects with Android development? Onur Cinar presents a detailed exploration of integrating native code through the Android NDK, aimed at developers ready to push app performance beyond Java's reach. You’ll learn how to handle JNI, optimize with NEON/SIMD, and troubleshoot native apps using tools like GDB and Valgrind, all framed through a practical game app case study. This book suits developers familiar with Android who want to elevate their apps with native code, offering both conceptual understanding and hands-on techniques without overpromising.

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Best for practical recipe-driven learning
Feipeng Liu's "Android Native Development Kit Cookbook" offers a hands-on, recipe-driven approach to mastering Android app development using native C and C++. This book has earned attention for its practical guidance on building, debugging, and optimizing Android NDK applications, addressing the needs of developers seeking speed and efficiency beyond Java-based development. Covering everything from basic JNI programming to advanced OpenGL ES graphics and multimedia integration, it equips you with the tools to create high-performance native apps and games that leverage the full capabilities of Android NDK.
2013·331 pages·Android Development, Android NDK, Native Programming, C++, JNI Programming

Feipeng Liu's expertise shines through in this cookbook tailored for Android developers eager to master native C/C++ programming with the Android NDK. You’ll work through over 60 concise recipes that guide you from basic app-building and JNI programming to advanced OpenGL ES graphics and multimedia development. The book breaks down complex topics like multi-threading and porting existing libraries, making it accessible whether you’re creating performance-critical games or multimedia apps. If you want a practical, code-focused approach to harnessing the full power of Android NDK, this book lays out the skills you need without overwhelming you with unnecessary theory.

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Best for tailored native coding plans
This AI-created book on Android NDK development is crafted based on your current skills, interests, and goals in native programming. By sharing what aspects of native Android development you want to focus on, you receive a tailored guide that matches your background and learning aims. This personalized approach ensures you delve deeply into the areas most relevant to your projects, helping you unlock expert techniques and better understand native code integration.
2025·50-300 pages·Android NDK, Native Integration, JNI Programming, Multithreading, Performance Optimization

This tailored book explores the core techniques and advanced practices of native Android NDK programming, designed to match your unique background and goals. It covers the essentials of integrating C++ code with Android apps, delving into JNI, multithreading, and performance optimization through a personalized lens. By focusing on your specific interests, it reveals how to harness native code for enhanced app speed and responsiveness, bridging theoretical concepts with practical application. Through tailored content, this book transforms complex native development topics into accessible knowledge that aligns with your experience level and development ambitions.

Tailored Content
Native Code Mastery
3,000+ Books Generated
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Best for experienced C++ game developers
Sergey Kosarevsky is an experienced game developer with a focus on Android NDK. He has authored several books on game development, bringing a wealth of practical knowledge to this guide. His expertise shines through in the detailed instructions and recipes designed to equip you with the skills needed to build high-performance mobile games using C++ and Android technologies.
Android Ndk Game Development Cookbook book cover

by Sergey Kosarevsky, Latypov Viktor·

2013·320 pages·Game Development, Android NDK, C++ Integration, Mobile Games, Multithreading

The methods Sergey Kosarevsky developed while working extensively with Android NDK come through clearly in this book, designed to help C++ developers leverage their skills for mobile game creation. You gain access to over 70 practical recipes that guide you through building portable games and integrating powerful C++ libraries into Android Java applications, all without relying on an IDE. The book assumes you know the basics of C or C++, including pointers and multithreading, making it well suited for those ready to deepen their understanding of game development on Android. If you're looking to bridge native code with Android's platform, this book offers focused instruction without unnecessary filler.

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Best for native programming beginners
Sylvain Ratabouil's Android NDK Beginner's Guide offers a focused approach to injecting high performance into your Android apps by leveraging native C/C++ code. This book walks you through creating applications that combine Java and native code, accessing essential native APIs, and porting libraries used in top Android apps. With a practical tutorial style enriched by insightful tips, it addresses a key challenge for developers aiming to push app performance beyond conventional methods. If you're looking to deepen your Android development skills and explore native programming, this guide provides a solid foundation tailored for your needs.
2015·494 pages·Android NDK, Android Development, Native Code, Performance Optimization, C++ Integration

The appeal of Sylvain Ratabouil's Android NDK Beginner's Guide lies in its clear focus on empowering you to harness native C/C++ code within Android applications. Ratabouil guides you through integrating native APIs and porting libraries that power many successful apps, making performance optimization accessible. You’ll find detailed tutorials on embedding C/C++ in Java apps and developing standalone native applications, supported by practical examples and insightful commentary. This book suits developers eager to deepen their Android expertise with native programming, especially those looking to boost app performance beyond standard Java capabilities.

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Best for mastering multimedia and graphics
Sergey Kosarevsky is an experienced 3D graphics and embedded developer who authored both '3D Graphics Rendering Cookbook' and this guide. His background in graphics and embedded systems uniquely qualifies him to teach developers how to extend their C++ skills into Android’s native layer. This book distills his expertise into practical lessons, helping you build portable, high-performance mobile applications using the Android NDK.
Mastering Android NDK book cover

by Sergey Kosarevsky, Viktor Latypov·

2015·328 pages·Android Development, Android NDK, C++ Libraries, Multithreading, OpenGL ES

What happens when deep expertise in 3D graphics meets Android development? Sergey Kosarevsky, an experienced embedded and graphics developer, brings that blend to this guide aimed at programmers who want to push their Android apps beyond Java limitations. You’ll learn to harness C++ libraries, write multithreaded native code, and implement advanced multimedia features like OpenGL ES 3 rendering and OpenAL audio playback. The book walks you through creating portable, high-performance mobile games and apps, making it a solid choice if you’re comfortable with C++ and eager to expand into native Android development.

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Best for rapid Android performance
This custom AI book on Android NDK development is created based on your current skills, interests, and goals in native app optimization. By sharing what aspects you want to focus on and your background, the book is tailored to deliver exactly the knowledge that will help you boost your app's performance. AI personalizes the content, so you get a learning experience that fits your pace and objectives without wading through irrelevant material.
2025·50-300 pages·Android NDK, Android Development, Native Code, JNI Integration, Performance Optimization

This tailored book explores a focused 30-day plan to enhance your Android app's performance through native development using the NDK. It covers essential topics like native code integration, JNI utilization, and performance optimization techniques, all tailored to match your background and goals. By addressing your specific interests in Android native development, the content helps you deepen understanding and accelerate skill acquisition efficiently. The personalized approach means this book focuses on the areas most relevant to your needs, blending proven concepts with your unique learning path. It reveals practical paths to boost your app’s speed and responsiveness, making the complex world of native Android development accessible and actionable for you.

Tailored Guide
Performance Tuning
1,000+ Happy Readers
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Best for aspiring Android game creators
Bruce Sutherland is a video game programmer with a Bsc (Hons) in Computer Games Technology and experience working on major titles like Dead Space and The Godfather II. His deep background in game programming directly informs this book, which introduces you to Android's Native Development Kit for building sophisticated C++ game apps. Driven by his practical experience, Sutherland offers a detailed roadmap for developers aiming to create and publish professional-quality Android games.
2013·331 pages·Game Development, Android Development, Android NDK, Game Engine, Rendering

When Bruce Sutherland first realized the potential of Android's Native Development Kit, he crafted this guide to help developers harness C++ for high-performance game apps. You learn to build everything from a game engine to rendering and collision detection, all grounded in the Android NDK environment. The book walks you through creating Droid Runner, a complete case study that ties together audio integration, camera perspectives, and game levels. If you aim to publish polished, professional games on platforms like Google Play or Amazon Appstore, this book offers clear, focused instruction tailored to your needs.

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Best for hands-on Android game projects
Android NDK game development (Korean Edition) opens a gateway for programmers eager to create Android games using C++. This book’s appeal lies in its extensive practical approach, presenting over 70 examples that cover essential game development topics like graphics, audio, networking, and input systems. It guides you through the process of building two distinct puzzle games, providing a solid foundation in using Android NDK for game projects. This makes it especially useful for developers who want to move from concept to a functioning game within the Android platform.
Android NDK game development (Korean Edition) book cover

by Sergei Kosarevski, Victor Latipov

2016·Game Development, Android NDK, C++ Programming, Network Connections, File Systems

What started as a focused effort to empower programmers with C++ skills for Android evolved into a practical guide packed with over 70 hands-on examples covering network connections, file systems, graphics, audio streaming, and user input systems. Sergei Kosarevski and Victor Latipov walk you through integrating these components step-by-step to build fully functional games, including match puzzle and picture puzzle genres. If you're looking to deepen your understanding of Android NDK beyond theory and want concrete applications that culminate in real game projects, this book delivers. However, it suits those comfortable with programming fundamentals who want to sharpen their game development toolkit specifically within the Android ecosystem.

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Conclusion

The collection of these seven Android NDK books highlights several clear themes: practical, hands-on techniques; expert-backed frameworks; and a focus on game development and performance optimization. If you prefer proven methods rooted in extensive experience, starting with "Pro Android C++ with the NDK" or "Mastering Android NDK" offers a solid foundation.

For validated approaches that blend theory with real-world application, combining "Android Native Development Kit Cookbook" with "Android Ndk Game Development Cookbook" provides both breadth and depth. Beginners will find "Android NDK Beginner's Guide" a welcoming entry point, while aspiring game creators can dive into "Beginning Android C++ Game Development".

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Android NDK book to combine proven methods with your unique needs. These widely-adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed, offering you a tested path to mastering native Android development.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "Android NDK Beginner's Guide" if you're new to native development. It lays down foundational concepts clearly before advancing to more complex topics covered in other books.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Android NDK?

Not at all. While some books target experienced developers, "Android NDK Beginner's Guide" and "Beginning Android C++ Game Development" are crafted for newcomers eager to learn native coding step by step.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with beginner-friendly guides, then explore practical cookbooks like Feipeng Liu's for recipes, and finally dive into advanced texts like "Mastering Android NDK" for multimedia and graphics mastery.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can choose based on your goals. For game development, consider Sergey Kosarevsky’s books; for broad native programming skills, Onur Cinar’s book is ideal. Pick what fits your focus.

Are any of these books outdated given how fast Android NDK changes?

These books cover foundational techniques and concepts that remain relevant despite platform updates. Their focus on core native programming ensures lasting value.

How can I get Android NDK learning material tailored to my specific needs?

While these expert books offer solid frameworks, a personalized Android NDK book can combine these proven methods with your unique background and goals. Check out creating a personalized Android NDK book for tailored learning.

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