Jetpack Compose Layouts: Why Google Ditching XML Was a Game-Changer
Sanjana Sapar
Google replaced XML layouts for a reason. Jetpack Compose uses Kotlin functions to build Android UIs faster, with better performance and zero nested layout headaches.
Why Use Jetpack Compose Layouts?
High Performance: No multiple measurement passes like traditional Android Views. Nest layouts deeply without slowdown.
Easy Custom Layouts: Create your own layouts more simply than XML allows.
Understanding Composable Functions
Composable functions are the building blocks of Jetpack Compose. Each describes a piece of UI and tells Compose what to render on screen.
The challenge? Without layout guidance, UI elements may overlap or become unreadable.
The solution? Use layout composables to organize your UI clearly and predictably.
Must-Know Jetpack Compose Layouts
Column – Vertical Stack
Stacks items top to bottom.
Example: Login form with username, password, and login button.
Row – Horizontal Line
Places items side by side.
Example: Bottom navigation with Home, Search, and Profile icons.
Box – Layered Container
Stacks items on top of each other.
Example: Profile picture with a notification badge overlay.
LazyColumn / LazyRow – Efficient Lists
Scrollable lists that render only visible items for smooth performance.
Example: Social media feed or image gallery.
ConstraintLayout – Complex Positioning
Flexible layout for advanced UI needs.
Example: Complex profile screens with interconnected elements.
The Compose Mindset Shift
Old Way: Define how things look pixel by pixel.
New Way: Describe what your UI should be based on the current state.
Quick Start Guide to Jetpack Compose Layouts
Column – For vertical items
Row – For horizontal layout
Box – For overlays (e.g. badge on image)
LazyColumn – For scrollable lists
ConstraintLayout – For complex screen structure
Conclusion
Jetpack Compose represents modern Android UI development — declarative, powerful, and XML-free. The layout system provides the performance and flexibility needed for today's Android applications.
Ready to try? Start with a simple profile screen using Column, Row, and Box layouts. These three composables will handle most of your basic UI needs.
Need sample code? Let me know in the comments — I'm happy to help with specific implementation examples!
What's your experience with Jetpack Compose layouts? Have you made the switch from XML? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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