What structure and main components does the AndroidManifest.xml file include?

The AndroidManifest.xml file is mandatory for every Android application and contains important information for the system about the app. The main components and structure of the file:

• Root element <manifest>: contains attributes package (the unique identifier of the app) and xmlns:android.
• <application> element: describes the app itself, its icons, themes, components, and permissions.
• Application components:
  • <activity> — describes a screen (activity).
  • <service> — background services.
  • <receiver> — broadcast message receivers.
  • <provider> — content providers.
• Permissions (<uses-permission>): specify what system permissions the app needs.
• Minimum and target SDK versions (<uses-sdk>): define the minimum and recommended Android versions.

Example of a minimal AndroidManifest.xml:

<manifest xmlns:android="http://schemas.android.com/apk/res/android"
    package="com.example.app">

    <uses-permission android:name="android.permission.INTERNET" />

    <application
        android:icon="@mipmap/ic_launcher"
        android:label="@string/app_name">

        <activity android:name=".MainActivity">
            <intent-filter>
                <action android:name="android.intent.action.MAIN" />
                <category android:name="android.intent.category.LAUNCHER" />
            </intent-filter>
        </activity>

    </application>

</manifest>