androidintentactionBOOTCOMPLETED

An Android Intent is a messaging object used to request an action from another app component. Intents can start an activity, start a service, or deliver a broadcast. They enable communication within and between applications. Intents come in two main forms: explicit intents specify the exact component to start by class name, while implicit intents declare an action to perform, allowing the system to resolve to a suitable component.

Intent objects can carry data via extras and setData, setType, or a data URI. They can include categories and flags; they can be used with IntentFilter declared in manifest so a component can respond to implicit intents. To start an activity: startActivity(intent). To start a service: startService(intent) or bindService. To broadcast: sendBroadcast(intent). For implicit intents, the OS presents candidate components; to receive, components declare intent filters with actions, categories, and data patterns.

Common examples include ACTION_VIEW to display a web page, or ACTION_DIAL to open the dialer. Intents are a core mechanism for modular app design and inter-app communication, enabling features such as sharing data between apps and deep linking.

Best practices include using explicit intents when possible to avoid leaking information, setting the target package or component when security is a concern, and validating data received via intents. Proper use of intents supports flexible navigation flows, component reusability, and consistent interoperation across the Android ecosystem.