How to Create a True Cross-Platform App Using Flutter UI Designs

Sep 3, 2021 | Programming

In today’s digital age, developing applications that function seamlessly across various platforms—web, mobile, and desktop—is more crucial than ever. With Flutter, creating such true cross-platform applications has never been easier. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps necessary to set up and run Flutter UI Designs, along with troubleshooting tips to help you overcome common hurdles.

Requirements to Run Flutter UI Designs Locally

Before diving into the code, ensure you have the following requirements installed:

  • Flutter stable version 2.0.0 or higher
  • Dart VM version 2.12.0 or higher

To enable the necessary desktop and web builds, run these commands in your terminal:

  • flutter --enable-web
  • flutter --enable-macos-desktop
  • flutter --enable-linux-desktop
  • flutter --enable-windows-desktop

Finally, run flutter doctor to check for any missing dependencies. This command will list what you need to install or update.

Getting Started with the Code

Before you begin coding, keep in mind that this project is tailored for intermediate to advanced Flutter developers. If you are a beginner, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with basic Flutter applications, such as ToDo apps. This will help set a solid foundation for understanding the more complex implementations within this project.

This project centers around two entry files: main.dart and main.mobile.dart. The purpose of having two files stems from the need to integrate Firebase analytics and crashlytics, which currently lack desktop support. Here’s an analogy to help clarify this:

Think of main.dart as a restaurant’s main menu, catering to all customers—web, mobile, and desktop. However, due to specific dietary restrictions (Firebase limitations), a separate “mobile menu” is created in the form of main.mobile.dart for those who order takeout (mobile users).

Understanding Important Files

  • Navigator.dart: Acts like a tour guide, managing routes and transitions just as a guide leads you smoothly through diverse locations without a hitch.
  • configsAppDimensions.dart: This is your toolkit for responsive UI design. It provides consistent sizing for various screens, much like a tailor who ensures that clothing fits perfectly irrespective of body size.
  • WidgetsScreen.dart: This essential widget ensures that each screen is well-configured with themes and styles, akin to an artist ensuring that every detail in a painting contributes to the overall masterpiece.

Maintaining a clean structure is paramount:

  • Do not import anything from one screen to another unless necessary.
  • Each screen should contain its own Dimensions.dart file for any responsive logic.
  • Keep your coding conventions clear, such as avoiding snake_case in property naming if that is your preference.

Scripts to Enhance Development

One utility script worth noting is vslaunch.dart. When executed, this script aids in creating a VSCode configuration file for all connected devices. You can then live-debug the app on multiple devices simultaneously—think of it as conducting an orchestra, where each instrument needs to be finely tuned to create a cohesive performance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some common troubleshooting tips to aid you along the way:

  • If you encounter any dependency issues when running flutter doctor, ensure all necessary tools are correctly installed.
  • For problems related to navigation, verify that the Navigator.dart file is correctly implemented and that routes are properly defined.
  • Should you face issues with UI responsiveness, revisit your configsAppDimensions.dart file to ensure constants and multipliers are defined correctly.

For more insights, updates, or to collaborate on AI development projects, stay connected with fxis.ai.

Show Your Support!

If you appreciate this project and wish to show your support, consider performing one of these actions:

At fxis.ai, we believe that such advancements are crucial for the future of AI, as they enable more comprehensive and effective solutions. Our team is continually exploring new methodologies to push the envelope in artificial intelligence, ensuring that our clients benefit from the latest technological innovations.

Stay Informed with the Newest F(x) Insights and Blogs

Tech News and Blog Highlights, Straight to Your Inbox