Skip to content

Troubleshooting Guide

This guide helps you resolve common issues when working with this Android starter template.

Build Errors

Gradle Sync Failures

JDK Version Mismatch

Error:

Jetpack requires JDK 17+ but it is currently using JDK 11.
Java Home: [/path/to/jdk-11]

Solution:

  1. Install JDK 21 (required by this template)
  2. Configure Android Studio to use JDK 21:
    • File → Project Structure → SDK Location → Gradle Settings
    • Set Gradle JDK to version 21
  3. Verify in settings.gradle.kts: 
    check(JavaVersion.current().isCompatibleWith(JavaVersion.VERSION_17))

References:

Repository Access Issues

Error:

Could not resolve com.google.firebase:firebase-bom:34.4.0

Solution:

  1. Check settings.gradle.kts repository configuration: 
    repositories {
    google {
        content {
            includeGroupByRegex("com\\.google.*")
        }
    }
    mavenCentral()
}
  2. Verify internet connection
  3. Clear Gradle cache: 
    ./gradlew clean --refresh-dependencies
  4. Check if behind a corporate proxy (configure in gradle.properties)

References:

  • settings.gradle.kts:32-44

Version Catalog Issues

Error:

Could not resolve libs.androidx.core.ktx

Solution:

  1. Ensure gradle/libs.versions.toml exists and is valid
  2. Check version catalog syntax: 
    [libraries]
androidx-core-ktx = { group = "androidx.core", name = "core-ktx", version.ref = "androidxCore" }
  3. Verify version references exist in [versions] section
  4. Sync project with Gradle files

References:

  • gradle/libs.versions.toml

KSP/Kapt Errors

Hilt Compilation Errors

Error:

[Dagger/MissingBinding] Cannot be provided without an @Inject constructor or an @Provides-annotated method

Solution:

  1. Verify Hilt plugin is applied in module's build.gradle.kts: 
    plugins {
    alias(libs.plugins.jetpack.dagger.hilt)
}
  2. Check if class is annotated properly: 
    @HiltViewModel
class MyViewModel @Inject constructor(...)
  3. Ensure repository has @Binds or @Provides in a Hilt module
  4. Clean and rebuild: 
    ./gradlew clean build

References:

Room Database Compilation Errors

Error:

error: Cannot find setter for field

Solution:

  1. Ensure entity class properties match DAO query column names
  2. Add @ColumnInfo annotation if database column name differs: 
    @Entity
data class MyEntity(
    @ColumnInfo(name = "user_id") val userId: String
)
  3. Verify @PrimaryKey is present
  4. Clean and rebuild project

References:

  • core/room/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/room/

Dependency Resolution Issues

Duplicate Class Errors

Error:

Duplicate class kotlin.collections.CollectionsKt found in modules

Solution:

  1. Check for conflicting dependency versions in gradle/libs.versions.toml
  2. Use BOM (Bill of Materials) for consistent versioning: 
    implementation(platform(libs.firebase.bom))
  3. Exclude transitive dependencies if needed: 
    implementation(libs.some.library) {
    exclude(group = "org.jetbrains.kotlin", module = "kotlin-stdlib")
}

References:

  • gradle/libs.versions.toml
  • build-logic/convention/src/main/kotlin/FirebaseConventionPlugin.kt:35

Configuration Cache Warnings

Error:

Configuration cache problems found in this build

Solution:

  1. This is expected due to google-services plugin (see gradle.properties:28)
  2. Warning mode is configured intentionally: 
    org.gradle.configuration-cache.problems=warn
  3. Build will complete successfully - these are warnings, not errors
  4. Reference issue: google/play-services-plugins#246

References:

  • gradle.properties:24-28

Runtime Errors

Application Crashes on Startup

Firebase Initialization Failure

Error (Logcat):

java.lang.IllegalStateException: Default FirebaseApp is not initialized

Solution:

  1. Verify google-services.json exists in app/ directory
  2. Check Firebase plugin is applied in app/build.gradle.kts: 
    plugins {
    alias(libs.plugins.jetpack.firebase)
}
  3. Ensure google-services plugin is applied (happens automatically via convention plugin)
  4. If using custom google-services.json:
    • Verify package name matches applicationId in build.gradle.kts
    • Check Firebase project configuration in Firebase Console

References:

  • app/build.gradle.kts:30
  • build-logic/convention/src/main/kotlin/FirebaseConventionPlugin.kt:30
  • Firebase Setup Guide

Hilt Injection Failures

Error (Logcat):

java.lang.RuntimeException: Unable to create application:
java.lang.IllegalStateException: Hilt entry point not found

Solution:

  1. Verify Application class is annotated with @HiltAndroidApp: 
    @HiltAndroidApp
class JetpackApplication : Application()
  2. Check activities are annotated with @AndroidEntryPoint: 
    @AndroidEntryPoint
class MainActivity : ComponentActivity()
  3. Ensure ViewModel uses @HiltViewModel: 
    @HiltViewModel
class MyViewModel @Inject constructor(...) : ViewModel()
  4. Clean and rebuild project

References:

  • app/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/compose/JetpackApplication.kt
  • app/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/compose/ui/MainActivity.kt

Error (Logcat):

java.lang.IllegalArgumentException: Navigation destination that matches request NavDeepLinkRequest cannot be found

Solution:

  1. Verify destination is defined in navigation graph: 
    @Serializable
data object MyDestination

fun NavGraphBuilder.myScreen(...) {
    composable<MyDestination> { ... }
}
  2. Ensure navigation graph is added to NavHost: 
    NavHost(...) {
    myScreen(...)
}
  3. Check if using correct navigation route type
  4. Verify nested graphs have correct start destination

References:

Error (Logcat):

kotlinx.serialization.SerializationException: Serializer for class 'MyData' is not found

Solution:

  1. Add @Serializable annotation to data class: 
    @Serializable
data class MyDestination(val id: String, val data: MyData)

@Serializable
data class MyData(val name: String)
  2. Ensure Kotlin serialization plugin is applied: 
    plugins {
    alias(libs.plugins.kotlin.serialization)
}
  3. For custom types, provide custom serializer

References:

Backstack Issues

Problem: Unexpected backstack behavior (duplicate screens, can't go back, wrong screen when pressing back)

Solution:

  1. For "pop to specific destination", use popUpTo with inclusive: 
    navController.navigate(Home) {
    popUpTo(Login) { inclusive = true }  // Remove Login from backstack
}
  2. For "single instance" screens (like Home), use launchSingleTop: 
    navController.navigate(Home) {
    launchSingleTop = true
    restoreState = true
}
  3. For bottom navigation, use proper state restoration: 
    navController.navigate(destination) {
    popUpTo(navController.graph.findStartDestination().id) {
        saveState = true
    }
    launchSingleTop = true
    restoreState = true
}
  4. To clear entire backstack and start fresh: 
    navController.navigate(Home) {
    popUpTo(0) { inclusive = true }  // Clear all backstack
}
  5. Debug backstack state: 
    Timber.d("Backstack: ${navController.currentBackStack.value.map { it.destination.route }}")

References:

Nested Navigation Graph Issues

Problem: Nested graphs not working, start destination errors, or can't navigate to nested destinations

Solution:

  1. Ensure nested graph has explicit start destination: 
    @Serializable
data object AuthNavGraph

@Serializable
data object Login

fun NavGraphBuilder.authNavGraph() {
    navigation<AuthNavGraph>(startDestination = Login) {  // Must specify startDestination
        composable<Login> { LoginRoute(...) }
        composable<Register> { RegisterRoute(...) }
    }
}
  2. Navigate to nested graph's start destination (not the graph itself): 
    // Wrong - can't navigate to graph
navController.navigate(AuthNavGraph)

// Correct - navigate to start destination
navController.navigate(Login)
  3. For deep links into nested graphs, ensure route hierarchy is correct: 
    // Nested graph route hierarchy: AuthNavGraph > Login
composable<Login>(
    deepLinks = listOf(navDeepLink<Login>(basePath = "app://auth/login"))
) { ... }
  4. When popping from nested graph, pop to parent graph's destination: 
    navController.navigate(Home) {
    popUpTo(AuthNavGraph) { inclusive = true }  // Remove entire auth flow
}
  5. Check if parent NavHost includes nested graph: 
    NavHost(...) {
    authNavGraph()  // Must be called to register nested graph
    homeNavGraph()
}

References:

Problem: Arguments passed to destination are null or have default values instead of passed values

Solution:

  1. Ensure destination parameter names match navigation arguments: 
    @Serializable
data class Profile(val userId: String)  // Parameter name must match

// In composable
composable<Profile> { backStackEntry ->
    val profile: Profile = backStackEntry.toRoute()
    ProfileRoute(userId = profile.userId)  // Use parameter from route
}
  2. Verify arguments are passed when navigating: 
    // Wrong - missing argument
navController.navigate(Profile(""))

// Correct - pass actual argument
navController.navigate(Profile(userId = currentUserId))
  3. For optional arguments, use nullable types or default values: 
    @Serializable
data class Profile(
    val userId: String,
    val tab: String? = null  // Optional argument with default
)
  4. Check for serialization issues (see "Navigation Argument Serialization Errors" above)
  5. Debug arguments: 
    composable<Profile> { backStackEntry ->
    val profile: Profile = backStackEntry.toRoute()
    Timber.d("Received userId: ${profile.userId}")
    ProfileRoute(userId = profile.userId)
}

References:

State Management Issues

State Not Updating in UI

Problem: UI doesn't reflect ViewModel state changes

Solution:

  1. Ensure using collectAsStateWithLifecycle() in composables: 
    val uiState by viewModel.uiState.collectAsStateWithLifecycle()
  2. Verify ViewModel uses MutableStateFlow: 
    private val _uiState = MutableStateFlow(UiState(MyScreenData()))
val uiState = _uiState.asStateFlow()
  3. Use proper state update functions: 
    // Synchronous updates
_uiState.updateState { copy(name = newName) }

// Async operations with Result<T>
_uiState.updateStateWith { repository.getData() }

// Async operations with Result<Unit>
_uiState.updateWith { repository.saveData() }

References:

OneTimeEvent Not Consumed

Problem: Error messages or navigation events trigger multiple times

Solution:

  1. Use OneTimeEvent wrapper for single-consumption events: 
    data class UiState<T>(
    val data: T,
    val error: OneTimeEvent<Throwable?> = OneTimeEvent(null)
)
  2. Consume event properly in UI: 
    StatefulComposable(
    state = uiState,
    onShowSnackbar = onShowSnackbar
) { ... }
  3. StatefulComposable handles event consumption automatically

References:

  • core/android/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/android/utils/OneTimeEvent.kt
  • core/ui/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/ui/utils/StatefulComposable.kt

Multiple Loading States Simultaneously

Problem: Multiple loading indicators showing at once or loading state stuck

Solution:

  1. Use single UiState<T> wrapper per screen (not multiple): 
    // Wrong - multiple loading states
data class ScreenData(
    val data1Loading: Boolean,
    val data2Loading: Boolean
)

// Correct - single loading state in UiState wrapper
data class ScreenData(
    val data1: List<Item>,
    val data2: List<Item>
)
// UiState<ScreenData> has single loading field
  2. If truly need multiple loading states, manage them explicitly: 
    data class ScreenData(
    val items: List<Item> = emptyList(),
    val isRefreshing: Boolean = false  // Separate from main loading
)
  3. Ensure updateStateWith completes properly (sets loading = false)
  4. Check for exception swallowing that prevents loading state reset

References:

updateStateWith Not Working

Problem: updateStateWith or updateWith doesn't update state or shows compilation error

Solution:

  1. Ensure Kotlin context parameters feature is enabled (already configured): 
    // In build.gradle.kts
freeCompilerArgs += "-Xcontext-receivers"
  2. Verify you're calling from ViewModel (context parameters require ViewModel scope): 
    @HiltViewModel
class MyViewModel @Inject constructor() : ViewModel() {
    fun loadData() {
        _uiState.updateStateWith {  // Has implicit access to viewModelScope
            repository.getData()
        }
    }
}
  3. For updateStateWith, repository must return Result<T>: 
    // Repository
override suspend fun getData(): Result<Data> = suspendRunCatching { ... }
  4. For updateWith, repository must return Result<Unit>: 
    // Repository
override suspend fun saveData(): Result<Unit> = suspendRunCatching { ... }
  5. If still issues, use explicit viewModelScope.launch as fallback

References:

Lifecycle Issues

Compose Recomposition Not Triggering

Problem: UI doesn't update even though state has changed

Solution:

  1. Ensure using collectAsStateWithLifecycle() instead of collectAsState(): 
    // Wrong - doesn't respect lifecycle
val uiState by viewModel.uiState.collectAsState()

// Correct - lifecycle-aware collection
val uiState by viewModel.uiState.collectAsStateWithLifecycle()
  2. Verify state is immutable data class with copy() for updates: 
    data class ScreenData(val name: String)

// Updates must create new instance
_uiState.updateState { copy(name = newName) }
  3. Check if accidentally mutating state instead of replacing it
  4. Ensure StateFlow is being used, not Flow

References:

  • core/ui/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/ui/extensions/LifecycleExtensions.kt
  • feature/home/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/feature/home/ui/home/HomeScreen.kt:68

ViewModel Outliving Composable

Problem: ViewModel continues executing after screen is destroyed

Solution:

  1. Always use viewModelScope for coroutines in ViewModel: 
    fun loadData() {
    viewModelScope.launch {
        // Automatically cancelled when ViewModel is cleared
    }
}
  2. For background operations, use updateStateWith (uses context parameters): 
    fun loadData() {
    _uiState.updateStateWith {  // Auto-uses viewModelScope
        repository.getData()
    }
}
  3. Never launch coroutines with GlobalScope
  4. Verify ViewModel is scoped to navigation destination, not activity

References:

Snackbar Showing After Navigation

Problem: Error snackbar appears after user has navigated away

Solution:

  1. This is expected behavior when using StatefulComposable
  2. To prevent, handle navigation before error occurs: 
    fun saveAndNavigate() {
    viewModelScope.launch {
        repository.save().onSuccess {
            navigator.navigate(NextScreen)  // Navigate before error can trigger
        }.onFailure {
            _uiState.updateState { copy(error = OneTimeEvent(it)) }
        }
    }
}
  3. Or consume errors before navigation: 
    // In composable
LaunchedEffect(saveSuccess) {
    if (saveSuccess) {
        navigator.navigate(NextScreen)
    }
}
  4. Consider using navigation with result pattern if needed

References:

  • core/ui/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/ui/utils/StatefulComposable.kt
  • core/android/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/android/utils/OneTimeEvent.kt

Activity Recreated on Configuration Change

Problem: App state lost during rotation or configuration change

Solution:

  1. ViewModels survive configuration changes automatically
  2. Ensure state is in ViewModel, not composable: 
    // Wrong - state lost on rotation
@Composable
fun MyScreen() {
    var name by remember { mutableStateOf("") }
}

// Correct - state survives rotation
@HiltViewModel
class MyViewModel @Inject constructor() : ViewModel() {
    private val _uiState = MutableStateFlow(UiState(ScreenData()))
    val uiState = _uiState.asStateFlow()
}
  3. For non-ViewModel state that should persist, use rememberSaveable: 
    var searchQuery by rememberSaveable { mutableStateOf("") }
  4. Complex objects need custom Saver implementation

References:

Firebase Issues

Authentication Not Working

Google Sign-In Fails

Error:

com.google.android.gms.common.api.ApiException: 10:

Solution:

  1. Add SHA-1 fingerprint to Firebase Console: 
    # Get debug SHA-1
./gradlew signingReport
  2. Copy SHA-1 from output under "Variant: debug, Config: debug"
  3. Add to Firebase Console:
    • Project Settings → Your apps → SHA certificate fingerprints
  4. Download new google-services.json and replace in app/
  5. Rebuild and reinstall app

References:

Credential Manager Not Found

Error (Logcat):

CredentialManager is not available

Solution:

  1. Ensure device/emulator runs Android 14+ or has Google Play Services
  2. For devices below Android 14, add Jetpack library: 
    implementation(libs.androidx.credentials)
implementation(libs.credentials.play.services.auth)
    (Already included in template)
  3. Verify Google Play Services is up-to-date on device

References:

  • firebase/auth/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/firebase/auth/data/AuthDataSource.kt
  • gradle/libs.versions.toml:160-162

Firestore Permission Denied

Error (Logcat):

PERMISSION_DENIED: Missing or insufficient permissions

Solution:

  1. Check Firestore Security Rules in Firebase Console
  2. For development, use permissive rules (⚠️ not for production): 
    rules_version = '2';
service cloud.firestore {
  match /databases/{database}/documents {
    match /{document=**} {
      allow read, write: if request.auth != null;
    }
  }
}
  3. For production, implement proper security rules
  4. Ensure user is authenticated before accessing Firestore

References:

  • firebase/firestore/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/firebase/firestore/data/FirebaseDataSource.kt
  • Firebase Setup Guide

Firebase Analytics Not Tracking

Problem: Events not appearing in Firebase Analytics console

Solution:

  1. Verify Firebase Analytics is initialized (happens automatically with Firebase SDK)
  2. Check if Analytics logging is enabled: 
    // In debug builds, enable verbose logging
Firebase.analytics.setAnalyticsCollectionEnabled(true)
  3. For debug testing, enable debug mode via ADB: 
    # Enable Analytics debug mode
adb shell setprop debug.firebase.analytics.app dev.atick.compose

# View events in real-time
adb logcat -s FA
  4. Check if events are being logged correctly: 
    Firebase.analytics.logEvent("button_click") {
    param("button_name", "login")
    param("screen_name", "auth")
}
  5. Events may take 24 hours to appear in console (use DebugView for immediate feedback)
  6. Verify google-services.json has correct Analytics project configuration

References:

  • firebase/analytics/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/firebase/analytics/AnalyticsLogger.kt
  • Firebase Setup Guide

Crashlytics Not Reporting

Problem: Crashes not appearing in Firebase Crashlytics console

Solution:

  1. Ensure Crashlytics is enabled in build.gradle.kts: 
    buildTypes {
    release {
        firebaseCrashlytics {
            mappingFileUploadEnabled = true
        }
    }
}
  2. Verify Firebase Crashlytics plugin is applied (happens via FirebaseConventionPlugin)
  3. Check if Crashlytics is initialized: 
    // Crashlytics initializes automatically with Firebase SDK
Firebase.crashlytics.setCrashlyticsCollectionEnabled(true)
  4. For testing, force a crash: 
    Firebase.crashlytics.log("Test crash triggered")
throw RuntimeException("Test crash")
  5. Crashes may take a few minutes to appear in console
  6. For release builds, ensure ProGuard mapping files are uploaded: 
    ./gradlew assembleRelease
# Mapping files automatically uploaded if mappingFileUploadEnabled = true
  7. Check logcat for Crashlytics errors: 
    adb logcat -s FirebaseCrashlytics

References:

  • firebase/analytics/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/firebase/analytics/AnalyticsLogger.kt
  • build-logic/convention/src/main/kotlin/FirebaseConventionPlugin.kt
  • Firebase Setup Guide

Firebase Initialization Failures

Problem: Firebase not initializing properly, causing crashes or missing functionality

Solution:

  1. See detailed Firebase initialization troubleshooting in Runtime Errors → Application Crashes on Startup → Firebase Initialization Failure (line 195)
  2. Quick checklist:
    • ✅ google-services.json exists in app/ directory
    • ✅ Firebase plugin applied via convention plugin
    • ✅ Package name matches applicationId
    • ✅ Firebase project properly configured in console
  3. For emulator testing, use Firebase Emulator Suite: 
    firebase emulators:start
  4. Check Firebase SDK versions in gradle/libs.versions.toml: 
    [versions]
firebase-bom = "34.4.0"

References:

  • app/build.gradle.kts:30
  • build-logic/convention/src/main/kotlin/FirebaseConventionPlugin.kt
  • Firebase Setup Guide
  • See also: Runtime Errors → Firebase Initialization Failure (line 195)

Compose Issues

Recomposition Issues

Composable Not Recomposing

Problem: UI doesn't update when state changes

Solution:

  1. Ensure using collectAsStateWithLifecycle() for Flow collection: 
    // Wrong - doesn't observe lifecycle
val uiState by viewModel.uiState.collectAsState()

// Correct - lifecycle-aware
val uiState by viewModel.uiState.collectAsStateWithLifecycle()
  2. Verify state is immutable and creates new instances: 
    // Wrong - mutating state
data.items.add(newItem)

// Correct - creating new instance
_uiState.updateState { copy(items = items + newItem) }
  3. Check if using remember correctly: 
    // Wrong - doesn't recompose on state change
val items = remember { mutableStateListOf<Item>() }

// Correct - observes ViewModel state
val uiState by viewModel.uiState.collectAsStateWithLifecycle()
  4. For derived state, use derivedStateOf: 
    val filteredItems by remember {
    derivedStateOf {
        items.filter { it.isActive }
    }
}

References:

  • core/ui/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/ui/extensions/LifecycleExtensions.kt
  • State Management Guide
  • See also: Lifecycle Issues → Compose Recomposition Not Triggering (line 613)

Excessive Recomposition

Problem: UI stutters or battery drains due to too frequent recomposition

Solution:

  1. Use stable parameters in composables: 
    // Wrong - lambda recreated on every recomposition
Button(onClick = { viewModel.loadData() })

// Correct - stable reference
Button(onClick = viewModel::loadData)
  2. Mark data classes as stable when appropriate: 
    @Immutable
data class ScreenData(val items: List<Item>)
  3. Use key parameter in lists to prevent unnecessary recomposition: 
    LazyColumn {
    items(items = jetpacks, key = { it.id }) { jetpack ->
        JetpackCard(jetpack)
    }
}
  4. Use derivedStateOf for computed values: 
    val filteredItems by remember {
    derivedStateOf {
        items.filter { it.isActive }
    }
}
  5. Avoid reading state that doesn't affect UI: 
    // Wrong - unnecessary recomposition on timestamp change
Text("Updated: ${state.lastUpdateTimestamp}")

// Better - only show meaningful state
Text("Items: ${state.items.size}")
  6. Use Layout Inspector to identify recomposition hotspots:
    • Android Studio → View → Tool Windows → Layout Inspector
    • Enable "Show Recomposition Counts"

References:

  • Performance Guide
  • See also: Memory Issues → Compose Recomposing Too Often (line 1295)

Compose Preview Issues

Previews Not Rendering

Problem: Compose previews don't render or show errors

Solution:

  1. Ensure using Android Studio Hedgehog (2023.1.1) or newer
  2. Enable Compose Preview features:
    • Settings → Experimental → Compose
    • Enable "Live Edit of Literals"
  3. Verify preview annotations are correct: 
    @PreviewDevices
@PreviewThemes
@Composable
private fun HomeScreenPreview() {
    JetpackTheme {
        HomeScreen(
            screenData = HomeScreenData(),
            onAction = {}
        )
    }
}
  4. Ensure preview composables are private (not public)
  5. Refresh preview (toolbar icon or Ctrl+Shift+F5 / Cmd+Shift+F5)
  6. If still failing, try:
    • Build → Refresh All Previews
    • File → Invalidate Caches / Restart
    • Clean and rebuild project

References:

  • core/ui/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/ui/utils/PreviewDevices.kt
  • core/ui/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/ui/utils/PreviewThemes.kt
  • See also: Development Environment Issues → Compose Preview Not Working (line 1020)

Preview Shows Wrong Theme

Problem: Preview doesn't reflect light/dark theme correctly

Solution:

  1. Use @PreviewThemes annotation (includes both light and dark): 
    @PreviewThemes
@Composable
private fun MyScreenPreview() {
    JetpackTheme {  // Theme wrapper required
        MyScreen(...)
    }
}
  2. For manual theme control, use uiMode parameter: 
    @Preview(uiMode = Configuration.UI_MODE_NIGHT_YES)
@Composable
private fun MyScreenDarkPreview() {
    JetpackTheme {
        MyScreen(...)
    }
}
  3. Always wrap preview content in JetpackTheme { }
  4. Check if using correct @PreviewThemes annotation: 
    // Correct - custom multi-preview annotation
@PreviewThemes  // Defined in core/ui

// Not - standard Preview
@Preview(uiMode = Configuration.UI_MODE_NIGHT_YES)

References:

  • core/ui/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/ui/utils/PreviewThemes.kt
  • core/ui/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/ui/theme/Theme.kt

Preview Shows Hardcoded Data Instead of Real State

Problem: Preview shows placeholder data, not actual ViewModel state

Solution:

  1. This is expected behavior - previews should use fake data
  2. For preview data, create sample data objects: 
    @PreviewDevices
@PreviewThemes
@Composable
private fun HomeScreenPreview() {
    JetpackTheme {
        HomeScreen(
            screenData = HomeScreenData(
                items = listOf(
                    Item(id = "1", name = "Preview Item 1"),
                    Item(id = "2", name = "Preview Item 2")
                )
            ),
            onAction = {}  // No-op for preview
        )
    }
}
  3. For complex preview data, create preview data factories: 
    object PreviewData {
    val sampleItems = listOf(
        Item(id = "1", name = "Item 1"),
        Item(id = "2", name = "Item 2")
    )
}

@PreviewThemes
@Composable
private fun HomeScreenPreview() {
    JetpackTheme {
        HomeScreen(
            screenData = HomeScreenData(items = PreviewData.sampleItems),
            onAction = {}
        )
    }
}
  4. Never access ViewModel in preview composables
  5. This is why Screen composables are separated from Route composables

References:

Compose Performance Issues

LazyList Scrolling Lag

Problem: Scrolling through lists is janky or slow

Solution:

  1. Always provide key parameter: 
    LazyColumn {
    items(items = jetpacks, key = { it.id }) { jetpack ->
        JetpackCard(jetpack)
    }
}
  2. Use contentType for heterogeneous lists: 
    items(
    items = items,
    key = { it.id },
    contentType = { it.type }  // Helps Compose reuse compositions
) { item ->
    when (item.type) {
        "header" -> HeaderItem(item)
        "content" -> ContentItem(item)
    }
}
  3. Avoid heavy computations in item composables: 
    // Wrong - computation in composable
JetpackCard(
    jetpack = jetpack,
    formattedDate = formatDate(jetpack.timestamp)  // Recomputed on every scroll
)

// Correct - computation in data layer
data class Jetpack(
    val id: String,
    val timestamp: Long,
    val formattedDate: String  // Pre-computed
)
  4. Use Modifier.drawWithCache for custom drawing: 
    Modifier.drawWithCache {
    val path = Path()  // Cached between recompositions
    onDrawBehind { drawPath(path, color) }
}
  5. Check for image loading issues (see Memory Issues → Image Loading)

References:

  • feature/home/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/feature/home/ui/home/HomeScreen.kt:104
  • Performance Guide
  • See also: Memory Issues → Large List Performance Issues (line 1250)

Compose UI Jank or Frame Drops

Problem: UI animation stutters or drops frames

Solution:

  1. Use animateFloatAsState for smooth animations: 
    val scale by animateFloatAsState(
    targetValue = if (isPressed) 0.95f else 1f,
    animationSpec = spring(dampingRatio = Spring.DampingRatioMediumBouncy)
)
  2. Avoid heavy operations during composition: 
    // Wrong - heavy operation in composition
val result = heavyComputation(data)

// Correct - use LaunchedEffect
var result by remember { mutableStateOf<Result?>(null) }
LaunchedEffect(data) {
    result = withContext(Dispatchers.Default) {
        heavyComputation(data)
    }
}
  3. Profile with Android Studio Profiler:
    • View → Tool Windows → Profiler
    • Check CPU usage during jank
    • Identify slow composables
  4. Use Layout Inspector to check composition counts:
    • Enable "Show Recomposition Counts"
    • Identify composables recomposing too frequently
  5. Consider using Modifier.graphicsLayer for transform animations: 
    Modifier.graphicsLayer {
    scaleX = scale
    scaleY = scale
}

References:

Compose State Issues

remember State Lost on Recomposition

Problem: State stored with remember resets unexpectedly

Solution:

  1. For configuration changes (rotation), use rememberSaveable: 
    // Wrong - lost on rotation
var searchQuery by remember { mutableStateOf("") }

// Correct - survives rotation
var searchQuery by rememberSaveable { mutableStateOf("") }
  2. For complex objects, provide custom Saver: 
    val customSaver = Saver<CustomState, Bundle>(
    save = { state -> Bundle().apply { putString("key", state.value) } },
    restore = { bundle -> CustomState(bundle.getString("key") ?: "") }
)

val state by rememberSaveable(stateSaver = customSaver) {
    mutableStateOf(CustomState())
}
  3. For screen-level state, use ViewModel instead: 
    @HiltViewModel
class MyViewModel @Inject constructor() : ViewModel() {
    private val _uiState = MutableStateFlow(UiState(ScreenData()))
    val uiState = _uiState.asStateFlow()
}

References:

LaunchedEffect Runs Multiple Times

Problem: LaunchedEffect executes more than expected

Solution:

  1. Check key parameters - effect relaunches when keys change: 
    // Runs on every recomposition (Unit key never changes after first run)
LaunchedEffect(Unit) {
    // Runs once
}

// Runs every time userId changes
LaunchedEffect(userId) {
    loadUserData(userId)
}
  2. For one-time effects, use Unit or true as key: 
    LaunchedEffect(Unit) {
    // Runs only once
    analytics.logScreenView("home")
}
  3. For multiple dependencies, use multiple keys: 
    LaunchedEffect(userId, categoryId) {
    // Runs when either userId or categoryId changes
    loadData(userId, categoryId)
}
  4. Avoid using mutable state as keys unless intended: 
    // Wrong - relaunches on every state change
LaunchedEffect(uiState) {
    // This is almost never what you want
}

// Correct - specific property
LaunchedEffect(uiState.userId) {
    loadUserData(uiState.userId)
}

References:

Code Quality Issues

Spotless Formatting Errors

Error:

Step 'licenseHeaderFile' found problem in 'src/main/kotlin/MyFile.kt':
  License header mismatch

Solution:

  1. Run Spotless Apply to auto-fix: 
    ./gradlew spotlessApply --init-script gradle/init.gradle.kts --no-configuration-cache
  2. Manually add copyright header from spotless/copyright.kt: 
    /*
 * Copyright 2023 Atick Faisal
 *
 * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License");
 * ...
 */
  3. For custom copyright, modify files in spotless/ directory

References:

Ktlint Violations

Error:

Step 'ktlint' found problem in 'MyFile.kt':
  Exceeded max line length (120)

Solution:

  1. Run Spotless Apply to auto-fix most issues: 
    ./gradlew spotlessApply --init-script gradle/init.gradle.kts --no-configuration-cache
  2. For line length violations, break lines appropriately: 
    // Too long
fun myFunction(param1: String, param2: String, param3: String, param4: String): Result<Data>

// Fixed
fun myFunction(
    param1: String,
    param2: String,
    param3: String,
    param4: String
): Result<Data>
  3. For Compose-specific violations, follow custom rules from io.nlopez.compose.rules:ktlint

References:

CI Build Fails on Spotless Check

Error (GitHub Actions):

Task :spotlessCheck FAILED

Solution:

  1. Run Spotless Check locally before pushing: 
    ./gradlew spotlessCheck --init-script gradle/init.gradle.kts --no-configuration-cache
  2. Fix issues with Spotless Apply: 
    ./gradlew spotlessApply --init-script gradle/init.gradle.kts --no-configuration-cache
  3. Commit and push fixes
  4. Best Practice: Set up pre-commit hook to run spotlessApply

References:

Development Environment Issues

Android Studio Setup Problems

Compose Preview Not Working

Problem: Compose previews don't render or show errors

Solution:

  1. Ensure using Android Studio Hedgehog or newer
  2. Enable Compose Preview:
    • Settings → Experimental → Compose
    • Enable "Live Edit of Literals"
  3. Verify preview annotations are correct: 
    @PreviewDevices
@PreviewThemes
@Composable
private fun MyScreenPreview() {
    JetpackTheme {
        MyScreen(...)
    }
}
  4. Refresh preview (toolbar icon or Ctrl+Shift+F5)
  5. If still failing, invalidate caches and restart

References:

  • core/ui/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/ui/utils/PreviewDevices.kt
  • core/ui/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/ui/utils/PreviewThemes.kt

Gradle Build Too Slow

Problem: Gradle builds take too long

Solution:

  1. Verify Gradle daemon settings in gradle.properties: 
    org.gradle.jvmargs=-Xmx8g -XX:+HeapDumpOnOutOfMemoryError
org.gradle.parallel=true
org.gradle.caching=true
org.gradle.configuration-cache=true
  2. Enable build cache (already configured in template)
  3. Use --no-configuration-cache flag only when necessary
  4. Close unnecessary background processes
  5. Consider increasing heap size in gradle.properties if you have more RAM

References:

  • gradle.properties:10-28

KSP/Kapt Takes Too Long

Problem: Annotation processing slow during builds

Solution:

  1. Use KSP instead of Kapt (template already uses KSP for Hilt and Room)
  2. Verify KSP is being used: 
    dependencies {
    "ksp"(libs.dagger.hilt.compiler)  // Not "kapt"
}
  3. Increase Gradle heap size if needed
  4. Close other IDEs/applications consuming memory

References:

  • build-logic/convention/src/main/kotlin/DaggerHiltConventionPlugin.kt:35

Emulator Issues

App Not Installing on Emulator

Problem: Installation fails or emulator not detected

Solution:

  1. Verify emulator is running: 
    adb devices
  2. If no devices listed, restart emulator
  3. If multiple devices, specify target: 
    ./gradlew installDebug -Pandroid.device=emulator-5554
  4. Clear app data and reinstall: 
    adb uninstall dev.atick.compose
./gradlew installDebug
  5. Check min SDK version matches emulator API level (minSdk: 24)

References:

  • gradle/libs.versions.toml:68

Build Configuration Issues

Release Build Problems

Keystore Not Found

Error:

keystore.properties file not found. Using debug key.

Solution:

  1. This is expected for debug builds and template usage
  2. For release builds, create keystore.properties in project root: 
    storePassword=your-store-password
keyPassword=your-key-password
keyAlias=your-key-alias
storeFile=your-keystore-file.jks
  3. Generate keystore if needed:
    • Android Studio: Build → Generate Signed Bundle/APK
    • Or use command line: 
      keytool -genkey -v -keystore release-keystore.jks \
  -keyalg RSA -keysize 2048 -validity 10000 -alias my-alias
  4. Place keystore in app/ directory

References:

ProGuard/R8 Errors

Error:

Missing class com.google.firebase.FirebaseApp

Solution:

  1. Add ProGuard rules in app/proguard-rules.pro: 
    -keep class com.google.firebase.** { *; }
-keep class com.google.android.gms.** { *; }
  2. For serialization issues, add: 
    -keepattributes *Annotation*, InnerClasses
-dontnote kotlinx.serialization.AnnotationsKt
  3. Test release builds thoroughly
  4. Check R8 full mode documentation if using

References:

  • app/proguard-rules.pro
  • app/build.gradle.kts:94-97

Data Layer Issues

Repository Errors Not Handled

Problem: Repository errors crash app instead of showing in UI

Solution:

  1. Use suspendRunCatching in repositories: 
    override suspend fun getData(): Result<Data> = suspendRunCatching {
    networkDataSource.getData()
}
  2. Use updateStateWith or updateWith in ViewModels: 
    fun loadData() {
    _uiState.updateStateWith {
        repository.getData()
    }
}
  3. StatefulComposable will automatically show errors via snackbar

References:

Room Database Migration Issues

Error (Logcat):

java.lang.IllegalStateException: Room cannot verify the data integrity

Solution:

  1. For development, use destructive migration: 
    Room.databaseBuilder(context, AppDatabase::class.java, "database-name")
    .fallbackToDestructiveMigration()  // Development only
    .build()
  2. For production, implement proper migrations
  3. Bump database version number when schema changes
  4. Clear app data and reinstall for testing

References:

  • core/room/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/room/di/DatabaseModule.kt

WorkManager Sync Issues

Background Sync Not Running

Problem: Sync operations don't execute

Solution:

  1. Verify WorkManager is initialized in Application.onCreate(): 
    @HiltAndroidApp
class JetpackApplication : Application() {
    override fun onCreate() {
        super.onCreate()
        Sync.initialize(context = this)
    }
}
  2. Check WorkManager constraints are satisfied (network, battery, etc.)
  3. Verify worker is using @HiltWorker and @AssistedInject: 
    @HiltWorker
class SyncWorker @AssistedInject constructor(
    @Assisted appContext: Context,
    @Assisted workerParams: WorkerParameters,
    ...
) : CoroutineWorker(appContext, workerParams)
  4. Check logs for WorkManager errors: 
    adb logcat -s WM-WorkerWrapper

References:

  • sync/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/sync/utils/Sync.kt
  • sync/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/sync/workers/SyncWorker.kt
  • app/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/compose/JetpackApplication.kt

Memory Issues

LeakCanary Detecting Leaks

Problem: LeakCanary reports memory leaks

Solution:

  1. Check ViewModel lifecycle - ensure not storing Activity/Context
  2. Verify Flow collection uses lifecycle-aware collectors: 
    val uiState by viewModel.uiState.collectAsStateWithLifecycle()
  3. Cancel coroutines properly in repositories
  4. Don't hold references to composables in ViewModel
  5. For known library leaks, suppress in LeakCanary config
  6. Disable LeakCanary in release builds (already configured)

References:

  • app/build.gradle.kts:138
  • core/ui/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/ui/extensions/LifecycleExtensions.kt

App Running Out of Memory

Error (Logcat):

java.lang.OutOfMemoryError: Failed to allocate

Solution:

  1. Check for image loading issues - ensure using Coil properly: 
    // Use DynamicAsyncImage component (handles memory efficiently)
DynamicAsyncImage(
    imageUrl = imageUrl,
    contentDescription = "Image",
    modifier = Modifier.size(200.dp)
)
  2. Verify Coil configuration uses memory cache (already configured): 
    // In CoilModule.kt
.memoryCache {
    MemoryCache.Builder(context)
        .maxSizePercent(0.25)  // Use 25% of app memory
        .build()
}
  3. For large lists, ensure using LazyColumn/LazyRow (not regular Column/Row)
  4. Check if loading too many high-resolution images simultaneously
  5. Limit image dimensions: 
    AsyncImage(
    model = ImageRequest.Builder(LocalContext.current)
        .data(imageUrl)
        .size(800)  // Limit dimensions
        .build()
)

References:

  • core/network/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/network/di/CoilModule.kt
  • core/ui/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/core/ui/image/DynamicAsyncImage.kt
  • Performance Guide

Large List Performance Issues

Problem: App lags or crashes when scrolling through large lists

Solution:

  1. Always use LazyColumn/LazyRow for lists (not Column/Row): 
    // Wrong - loads all items at once
Column {
    items.forEach { item ->
        ItemCard(item)
    }
}

// Correct - lazy loading
LazyColumn {
    items(items) { item ->
        ItemCard(item)
    }
}
  2. Provide key parameter for stable list items: 
    LazyColumn {
    items(items = jetpacks, key = { it.id }) { jetpack ->
        JetpackCard(jetpack)
    }
}
  3. Use contentType for heterogeneous lists: 
    items(items, key = { it.id }, contentType = { it.type }) { item ->
    // Compose can reuse layouts for same content type
}
  4. Avoid heavy computations in list items
  5. Consider using StaggeredGrid for varying item sizes

References:

  • feature/home/src/main/kotlin/dev/atick/feature/home/ui/home/HomeScreen.kt:104
  • Performance Guide

Compose Recomposing Too Often

Problem: UI stutters or battery drains due to excessive recomposition

Solution:

  1. Use derivedStateOf for computed state: 
    val filteredItems by remember {
    derivedStateOf {
        items.filter { it.isActive }
    }
}
  2. Pass stable parameters to composables: 
    // Wrong - lambda creates new instance every recomposition
Button(onClick = { viewModel.loadData() })

// Correct - stable reference
Button(onClick = viewModel::loadData)
  3. Mark data classes as @Stable or @Immutable when appropriate: 
    @Immutable
data class ScreenData(val items: List<Item>)
  4. Use key parameter in loops to prevent unnecessary recomposition
  5. Avoid reading state in composition that doesn't affect UI

References:

Testing Issues

Cannot Run Tests

Problem: Test infrastructure not yet implemented

Solution:

  1. Testing infrastructure is marked as Upcoming 🚧 in this template
  2. For now, manual testing is required
  3. Future updates will include:
    • Unit test setup for ViewModels
    • Repository tests
    • UI tests with Compose Test
  4. You can add your own testing framework following standard Android practices

References:

  • docs/guide.md:343-351

Getting Additional Help

If you encounter issues not covered in this guide:

  1. Check Related Guides:

  2. Search GitHub Issues:

    • Check existing issues: GitHub Issues
    • Search closed issues for solutions

  3. Enable Debug Logging:

    • Timber is included in this template
    • Add logging to identify issues: 
      Timber.d("Debug message: $variable")
Timber.e(throwable, "Error occurred")

  4. Clean Build:

    • Often resolves mysterious build issues: 
      ./gradlew clean
./gradlew build --refresh-dependencies

  5. Invalidate Caches:

    • Android Studio: File → Invalidate Caches / Restart

  6. Report a Bug:

    • If you've found a genuine issue with the template, please report it on GitHub with:
      • Android Studio version
      • Gradle version
      • Error logs
      • Steps to reproduce