Supported android version and compiling android version?

Question

I'm going to try aviary, and found these words in the documentation:

The Aviary Android SDK supports Android 2.2+ as the minSdkVersion, but it must be compiled using Android 4.0 (API level 14) as the target sdk. This means that your application must have "Android 4.0" selected in the "Project Build Target" Eclipse panel.

I'm confused why it must be compiling using android 4.0 and the same time support Android 2.2? If I use it write an application, can it run on an android 2.2 mobile? If yes, why it needs android 4.0 to compiling?

Answer 1

AndEngine requires Android 4.0 to compile, but it does check the Android version of the phone is running to ensure it will only call APIs that are compatible with that version. So although it as compiled with android 4.0 , it will run fine in a Android 2.3 device. I guess the same applies to the Aviary.

This link is useful: http://developer.android.com/training/basics/supporting-devices/platforms.html