DroidPilot

Inspiration

Developers spend a lot of time switching between toolbars, menus, and device selectors in Android Studio. We wanted to make common actions faster, smarter, and tangible using the MX Creative Console.

What it does

DroidPilot turns the MX Creative Console into a context-aware control surface for Android Studio. You can: • Run, stop, and debug apps dynamically • Monitor build and Gradle sync status at a glance • Switch connected devices or build variants with a dial

All buttons and dials adapt to the current IDE state, saving time and reducing context switching.

How we built it

• Developed a plugin for Android Studio using the IntelliJ OpenAPI to read project, build, and device state
• Created a Logitech Actions SDK plugin to map console buttons and dials to IDE actions
• Connected the two via a lightweight local bridge, sending IDE state in real time to the console
• Designed profiles for dynamic, context-aware action mapping

Challenges we ran into

• Understanding Gradle sync/build states and reflecting them in real time
• Handling dynamic button states on the MX Creative Console
• Ensuring our bridge between Android Studio and Logitech Actions was fast and reliable
• Balancing a polished demo with limited hackathon time

Accomplishments that we're proud of

• Fully functional dynamic Run/Stop/Debug button
• Live build and sync status indicators on the console
• Working device/emulator selector dial that reacts to Android Studio state
• Clean architecture that could extend to other IntelliJ IDEs in the future

What we learned

• How to leverage IntelliJ’s OpenAPI for real-time project and IDE state
• Best practices for MX Creative Console integration using Logitech Actions SDK
• How to design physical controls for software workflows
• The value of layered, future-proof architecture (generic IntelliJ core + Android-specific enhancements)

What's next for DroidPilot

• Add support for smart test running and logcat mode switching
• Refine UI feedback with icons, labels, and LED indicators
• Make the plugin fully generic for other IntelliJ IDEs
• Explore community-driven extensions and open-source release for wider adoption

Built With

• compose
• kotlin
• ws