RAD Studio XE6 introduces a C++ visual development environment for Android apps, enabling developers to modernize their Windows applications with VCL enhancements and expansion to mobile, and facilitates the creation of apps on multiple platforms and devices.
Users can create natively compiled apps for all platforms for both desktop and mobile, and even wearable devices like Google Glass, with a single C++ or Object Pascal (Delphi) codebase. A simple recompile delivers the same app with either a native or custom user interface (UI) to iOS, Windows, and Mac OS X with no code changes. RAD Studio XE6 supports multiple versions of Android, including 4.4 KitKat.
RAD Studio XE6 helps Windows VCL (Visual Component Library) developers with new app tethering components which enable developers to extend existing Windows VCL applications to mobile without having to port an entire Windows application. Developers can create mobile companion apps for VCL applications, pick the features that make sense for mobile and can interact with existing Windows applications.
RAD Studio XE6 also allows developers to take advantage of Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 features and style to transition from the no longer supported Windows XP to modern Windows 7 and 8.1 operating systems. App developers can modernize VCL Windows applications; preview and interact with multi-windowed applications with new Windows taskbar components; give applications a fresh, updated Windows 7 and 8.1 or custom look; and fully style applications, including menus and borders, to deliver a modern user experience. Developers can also make high performance 64-bit versions of their 32-bit apps.
The platform facilitates connectivity with cloud services and Backend-as-a-Service (BaaS) providers. New BaaS integration with components for Kinvey and Parse provides application access to backend services in the cloud – such as push notifications, storage, and user authentication – thus eliminating the need for developers to build or operate their own backend IT services and infrastructure.
RAD Studio XE6 also allows app developers to monetize mobile apps by integrating in-app purchase functionality and advertising so developers can sell content, functionality, services and subscriptions on iOS and Android. RAD Studio XE6 supports the top ad networks, including Google AdMob and Apple iAd.